The Pittsburgh Steelers have taken bold steps this offseason, acquiring high-profile players like Aaron Rodgers and Jalen Ramsey in their bid to make a serious playoff run in 2025. However, despite these moves, the team has yet to finalize a contract extension with their star pass rusher, T.J. Watt, leaving his future with the franchise uncertain amid growing tensions.
Contract Negotiations Hit Roadblocks as Trade Rumors Escalate
Over the past months, discussions surrounding Watt’s contract have taken a backseat amid other major priorities such as free agency and the NFL Draft. Now, with training camp fast approaching, the Steelers face mounting pressure to resolve the situation, as Watt holds significant leverage in talks that have started to stall. Rumors about a potential trade have begun to circulate, but veteran defensive tackle Cameron Heyward has made it clear that such a move would not be acceptable to the team.
Cameron Heyward Vows to Prevent T.J. Watt’s Trade
Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, Heyward addressed the possibility of Watt being traded before the season starts, expressing strong opposition to the idea.
I’m going right up to Omar [Kahn] and I’m telling him that’s not happening. I don’t think it helps our team to trade a guy like that… I’m going to put my hat in the ring and say this cannot happen.
—Cameron Heyward, Steelers Defensive Tackle
Though Heyward rarely discusses contracts with Watt himself, he emphasized his support for his teammate.
Man, that’s my brother. I want that dude to get paid what he deserves.
—Cameron Heyward, Steelers Defensive Tackle
The Impact of Losing Watt on and off the Field
Heyward highlighted Watt’s importance beyond just his on-field performance, noting the respect he commands from opponents and teammates alike. He stressed that losing Watt would be a harmful blow both professionally and personally.
Offensive players have to circle #90 week in and week out. There’s a level of respect there. I’ve had the best time playing with him and I hope this year isn’t our last time playing together, because that’s my running mate. We’ve created a lot of havoc together.
—Cameron Heyward, Steelers Defensive Tackle
Training Camp Looms as Watt Continues to Hold Out
With training camp set to begin shortly, tensions remain elevated as Watt has already skipped the team’s mandatory minicamps. This absence signals that he may continue his holdout, which could pose a significant risk to the Steelers’ readiness and injury prevention efforts.
Missing these early sessions has a direct connection to in-season injuries, raising concerns over Watt’s conditioning and availability. Should he sustain an injury like a hamstring strain or show a lack of preparedness by midseason, Pittsburgh’s chances of securing their first playoff victory since 2016 could be severely compromised.
Challenging Schedule Ahead Highlights Urgency to Resolve Watt’s Status
The Steelers face a tough second half of the season, including matchups against powerhouse teams such as the Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions, and two games against the Baltimore Ravens—all postseason contenders from last year. Watt’s absence or lack of conditioning during these critical weeks could undermine the team’s goals.
For the sake of the franchise and its playoff ambitions, Pittsburgh’s executives and Watt’s representatives must come to an agreement quickly. If they fail, the dissatisfaction voiced by team leaders like Heyward may grow more intense, complicating the situation further.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How good is T.J. Watt?
A. During the 2023 season, he achieved impressive stats, including 68 tackles, 19 sacks, four forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries. He also had an interception and defended eight passes. At 30, Watt is expected to continue performing well for several more years.