Pittsburgh Steelers Make TJ Watt the highest non-QB in NFL history for the second time
In 2024, the Pittsburgh Steelers led 10-7 and became the sixth seed in the playoffs. They lost to the Ravens 28-14 in the wildcard round.
During the offseason, previous defensive player of the year TJ Watt was eligible for a contract. During the offseason, there is a lingering drama between Pittsburgh’s front desk and Watt. Pressure is reaching an agreement for both parties. Ultimately, ESPN’s Adam Schefter announced that the Steelers gave Watt a three-year, $123 million extension. Watt’s AAV of $41 million is now the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history. This is the second time in his career that he has received this honor.
TJ Watt signs contract with Pittsburgh in 2028 season
ESPN Source: Steelers star TJ Watt, the second time in his outstanding career, reached a highest-paid non-QB in NFL history, today reached a three-year, $123 million extension that included $108 million, including $108 million signing guarantee. The average annual average is $41 million… pic.twitter.com/si6v7fudlp
— Adam Schefter (@adamschefter) July 17, 2025
In the 30th pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers chose de TJ Watt from Wisconsin. During his eight-year career with the Steelers, Watt has become a household name in the NFL. He is a four-time All-Pro player selection and was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2022. The 30-year-old led the NFL three times, with his career-high score in a single season of 22.5.
In 121 professional games, Watt recorded 108 sacks for the Steelers. His 73.5 sacks have the most in the NFL over the past five seasons. His dominance on the court is undeniable. That’s why Pittsburgh rewarded him with a three-year, $123 million extension. Watt’s average value now is $41 million. This makes Cincinnati’s Jamar Chase the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history. He made $40.25 million per season.
this #steelers Make TJ Watt the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history pic.twitter.com/0nzv0vpe3g
— Fox Sports: NFL (@nflonfox) July 17, 2025
Earlier in the offseason, TJ Watt did not report to the Steelers’ mini camp as both sides were committed to negotiations. Now a deal is reached, and Watt is expected to begin to train camp in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, July 22. The Steelers are sure they will re-sign Watt in the offseason.
In the NFL, contract negotiations can become ugly. Some players are willing to miss regular season games and get fined. For TJ Watt, that was never thought, and the Steelers were lucky. Pittsburgh made a small rebuild during the offseason. Aaron Rodgers has been introduced in QB. George Pickens was traded to Dallas, and the Steelers traded with the Seahawks to acquire DK Metcalf.
