BREAKING NEWS : T J Watt Says He’ll Retire a Pittsburgh Steelers – Here’s what He Just promised . see more de
Here’s a comprehensive deep dive (400+ words) into the ongoing saga of T.J. Watt, his future with the Steelers—and what his bold statements mean:
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🏈 “I Want to Retire a Steeler” — Watt’s Promise
Multiple sources are reporting that T.J. Watt has made one thing absolutely clear: his intention is to finish his career in Pittsburgh. He’s publicly expressed this desire, signaling to fans and the franchise that he wants to stay in Steel City for the long haul .
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What’s Fueling the Drama?
1. Contract Extension Talks
Current Deal & Market Value: Watt is entering the final year of a four-year, $112 million contract he signed in 2021 (about $28M/year). That deal now seems undervalued — Myles Garrett, for instance, secured a four-year, $160 million contract with $123.5 million guaranteed .
Recent Holdout: Watt skipped mandatory minicamp this spring, pressing the Steelers to offer an update or extension . Despite this standoff, both player and team say they’re hopeful for a bridge soon. CBSSports voices that a deal “sometime between now and the start of the regular season” is the likeliest outcome .
2. Franchise Investment & Team Strategy
Pittsburgh has made a splash in the offseason, bringing in elite talent like Aaron Rodgers and D.K. Metcalf 🌙 . Their defense also got bolstered by the acquisition of All-Pro CB Jalen Ramsey .
These moves indicate the Steelers are doubling down—keen to contend now. Keeping Watt on defense is critical to their title window .
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Trade Talk: Are They Open to Offers?
Despite his clear messaging, speculation has begun that Pittsburgh might entertain offers for Watt, especially now that they’ve taken on Ramsey’s hefty contract . But all signs point to one thing: they’re not shopping him . ESPN and Tom Pelissero both report that while interest from other teams is rising, the Steelers’ organization is squarely focused on extension—not trade .
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Why Watt Matters—And Why the Holdout?
Elite Production: Since 2018, Watt has recorded at least 10 sacks six out of seven seasons, including 11.5 sacks last year .
Historic Achievements: He led the NFL with 22.5 sacks in 2021, won Defensive Player of the Year, and has amassed 108 career sacks to date .
Bang for Their Buck: Despite his dominance, Watt’s deal averages $28M/year—far less than elite peers like Garrett at $40M+/year . This makes him a bargain—but also fuels his leverage for a bigger payday.
Skipping camp was a clear signal: Watt believes he’s earned top-tier money. But the Steelers have made no secret of their intent to keep him—and want to extend him before the 2025 season kicks off .
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What Watt Has Said About Retirement
While Watt has not declared an immediate retirement, he’s stressed that he doesn’t plan selectively. A 2024 interview clarified:
> “I don’t know if I want to play forever… I feel great right now… I’m kind of just living in the moment.”
Coupled with his recent promise to “retire a Steeler,” these comments show a SINCERE long-term commitment—but not a countdown. He’s basically saying: “I want to retire here, but I’m focused on the now.”
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What Next?
🔄 Contract Extension Path
Expect ongoing negotiations throughout summer. Given both sides’ interest, a new deal in the range of 4+ years and $160M+ (with $30–40M per year) seems most probable, aligning with elite defensive pass rushers .
🗞️ Trade Rumors
Unlikely to materialize—Steelers leadership remains committed to extending Watt rather than entertaining trade bids .
🏆 Playoff Aspirations
With Rodgers, Metcalf, Ramsey, and Watt all on board, plus a strong supporting cast, Pittsburgh is aiming for a deep playoff run in 2025 .
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Final Take
T.J. Watt wants to end his career in Pittsburgh—and wants a contract that reflects his status as one of the NFL’s elite. The Steelers have responded with major roster upgrades and are negotiating to keep their franchise cornerstone. Though there’s some speculation from other teams, Pittsburgh is all-in on keeping Watt, not trading him.
Fans should expect an extension announcement before the season—and if it happens, Watt will have fulfilled his promise to remain a Steeler for life. With an upgraded roster and their star rusher locked in, this could be the most exciting season in Pittsburgh in years.
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