T.J. Watt agreed to a landmark contract extension with the Pittsburgh Steelers, signing a three-year deal reportedly worth $123 million, making him the highest-paid defender in the NFL. Shortly after the announcement, cornerback Jalen Ramsey expressed his reaction in a brief but enthusiastic response on social media.
Details of T.J. Watt’s New Contract and Ramsey’s Response
After extensive negotiations, T.J. Watt secured a three-year extension with the Steelers valued at $123 million, averaging $41 million annually. This contract elevates Watt as the highest-paid defensive player in the league. Following the deal, Jalen Ramsey took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a congratulatory post with a simple caption:
“LESGO,” Ramsey wrote in the caption of the post.
Background on T.J. Watt’s Career and Recent Team Changes
Watt, selected by the Steelers in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, has been a key defensive figure for the team. Over eight seasons and 121 games, he has amassed 462 tackles, 108 sacks, 126 tackles for loss, and 225 quarterback hits. His performance earned him the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2021. Recently, the Steelers made significant roster moves, acquiring cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith in a trade that sent safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to another team. Ramsey spent the previous two seasons with the Miami Dolphins before joining Pittsburgh.
Controversy Over Contract Negotiations and Support for Watt
The Steelers faced criticism throughout the offseason for the delayed contract extension talks with Watt, who remained without a new deal for a significant period. Former NFL player James Jones voiced concerns about the situation during an appearance on FS1’s The Facility, highlighting the perceived disrespect toward Watt.
“It’s disrespectful man,” Jones said.
“If you don’t have this boy, you don’t have a lot of losing seasons because you have not hit on the quarterback play. You’ve been winning games strictly on defense. T.J. Watt has been the heart and soul of your team for the last six, seven years… (He) is getting disrespected right now, and what are the Pittsburgh Steelers doing?”
Family Support and Team’s Future Prospects
T.J. Watt’s brother, former NFL star J.J. Watt, who retired in 2022 after 12 seasons due to health issues, publicly praised the contract extension. On social media, J.J. Watt summed up his feelings about the deal with three words: “Earned. Deserved. Incredible.” The re-signing of Watt solidifies a crucial element of the Steelers’ defense under coach Mike Tomlin. Alongside defensive reinforcements, the Steelers have strengthened their offense by bringing in four-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers and star wide receiver DK Metcalf this offseason.
With these roster additions and Watt’s secured presence, Pittsburgh aims to end their recent struggles and make a strong playoff push in the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if these moves can revive the Steelers’ postseason fortunes.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Jalen Ramsey believe in God?
A. Jalen Ramsey explained that his motivation comes from his faith and his relationship with God. Whenever he plays, he strives not to disappoint God or take his talents for granted. He plays for an “audience of one.” #GoFins.
Q. What is Jalen Ramsey’s face mask called?
A. After joining the Dolphins, Jalen switched to the F7 helmet and adopted the Ramsey facemask style. The wire placement on this mask is uniquely customized.