T.J. Watt Becomes Highest-Paid Non-Quarterback in NFL History with Blockbuster Steelers Extension
The Pittsburgh Steelers have locked in their defensive cornerstone for the long haul. Star edge rusher T.J. Watt and the team have agreed to a massive three-year contract extension worth a staggering $123 million, according to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal includes an eye-popping $108 million fully guaranteed at signing, making Watt the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history — once again.
At 30 years old, Watt continues to cement his legacy as one of the most dominant defensive players in the game. The extension, which averages $41 million per season, surpasses the recent mega-deals awarded to Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase ($40.25 million per year) and Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett ($40 million per year). It’s a statement of both Watt’s immense value to the franchise and the Steelers’ unwavering commitment to elite defense.
Negotiations between Watt and the Steelers had been ongoing for months, at times growing tense. Watt notably skipped the team’s mandatory minicamp in June amid stalled contract talks. However, the deal was finally hammered out just days before training camp opens at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. With the agreement in place, Watt is now expected to report to camp on Tuesday.
This isn’t the first time Watt has reset the market. In 2021, he became the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player with a four-year, $112 million contract extension. Now, four years later, the Steelers are once again demonstrating their faith in Watt by making him the highest-paid player outside of the quarterback position in league history.
Watt’s production over the past five seasons more than justifies the investment. He leads the NFL with 73.5 sacks since 2019, consistently wreaking havoc in opposing backfields and anchoring Pittsburgh’s defense. The 2021 Defensive Player of the Year has become synonymous with relentless effort, explosive playmaking, and a leadership presence that defines the Steelers’ identity.
For Pittsburgh, keeping Watt in the black and gold ensures the defense remains a formidable unit for years to come. It also sends a powerful message about prioritizing homegrown talent. Drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Watt has been everything the franchise could hope for in a franchise player — and now, he’s being compensated accordingly.
As the Steelers prepare to kick off the 2025 season, securing Watt’s future offers a major boost to a team looking to return to championship contention. With their defensive juggernaut locked in, all eyes will be on Pittsburgh to see how far Watt and company can go in their pursuit of another Super Bowl title.