T.J. Watt demands $200M deal to become NFL's highest-paid non-QB amid Steelers contract standoff
T.J. Watt's future with the Pittsburgh Steelers is in question as the All-Pro edge rusher enters the final year of his contract in 2025. With talks stalled and tensions rising, Watt is reportedly pushing for a historic extension that would make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in
NFL
history—surpassing even Ja'Marr Chase's recent record deal.
T.J. Watt pushes for $200M extension to become NFL's highest-paid non-quarterback
The
Steelers
are facing a contract dilemma they've rarely dealt with one involving their franchise cornerstone on defense. According to NFL insider Gerry Dulac, Watt is seeking a five-year extension worth over $200 million, equating to more than $40 million annually. His demand stems from wanting to top Ja'Marr Chase's four-year, $161 million deal with the Bengals, currently the league's highest for any non-QB.
Watt, who turns 31 this year, believes his elite play and leadership warrant a massive payday.
Despite a modest sack total in 2024, his value remains undeniable. He continues to be the anchor of Pittsburgh's pass rush and is one of the most respected defenders in the league.
Steelers Insider Gerry Dulac on Pittsburgh's TJ Watt Contract Conundrum | The Rich Eisen Show
However, the Steelers are hesitant. Committing to a five-year deal for a player over 30 carries risk, even for someone with Watt's résumé. But from the player's perspective, a shorter deal wouldn't allow Pittsburgh to spread out the cap hit—a key issue in negotiations.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Trending in in 2025: Local network access control [Click Here]
Esseps
Learn More
Undo
Watt misses minicamp as contract talks with Steelers break down
The contract tension became public when Watt skipped the Steelers' mandatory minicamp in June, a rare move from a player who's typically all business. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Watt is frustrated with the lack of progress and that, while the Steelers don't intend to trade him, other NFL teams have started making calls in case the impasse leads to a surprise move.
This is unfamiliar territory for Pittsburgh. The organization is known for handling business quietly and efficiently with its stars. But this time, they're navigating a high-stakes contract in an era of soaring salary caps and positional value inflation.
Also Read:
Patrick Mahomes vs. Tom Brady, Manning, and Rodgers: How his first 7 seasons are reshaping NFL GOAT debate
If the Steelers don't act soon, they risk alienating one of their most important players. Watt remains under contract through 2025, but without a new deal, the pressure will intensify.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
22 minutes ago
- Time of India
Rosangel Cabrera starts fresh after finalizing divorce from MLB icon Miguel Cabrera after two decades
Rosangel Cabrera starts fresh after finalizing divorce from MLB icon Miguel Cabrera after two decades (Image via Getty) A surprising update has come in the life of former MLB star Miguel Cabrera and his wife Rosangel. After filing for divorce twice, Rosangel finalized the separation just over eight years after her first attempt. The long process unfolded quietly and now marks a major change in a family once renowned in baseball. Details on what happened and how both are moving forward follow below. Rosangel Cabrera finalizes divorce from Miguel Cabrera On July 2025, Rosangel Cabrera officially received her divorce from Miguel Cabrera. The couple had first filed for separation back in early 2017, citing undisclosed reasons. Though the case lingered in Florida family courts, recent filings confirm the divorce is now complete. While final court details remain private, public records show Rosangel pursued full legal separation a second time before resolution. She now is legally single and free to start a new chapter. What this means for Miguel Cabrera and their long marriage Miguel Cabrera, 41, rose to fame with a stellar career, winning multiple batting titles and MVP honors while playing for the Detroit Tigers and Florida Marlins. Rosangel, who married Cabrera in 1999, supported his career through Hall of Fame seasons and family life. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Providers are furious: Internet access without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo Also Read: Miguel Cabrera Shockingly Erased From Quarter Century List And Here Is Why The couple shares several children, though exact number and names remain private. With the divorce now finalized in mid‑2025, Cabrera remains focused on family and personal matters. He has not issued a public statement, but respected sources like TMZ report the split was amicable and both are 'ready to move forward.' For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Time of India
22 minutes ago
- Time of India
Wayne Gretzky threatened to cancel daughter's wedding over Dustin Johnson's drug abuse scandal
Dustin Johnson faced a crucial ultimatum from Wayne Gretzky (Image via AP) Long before Dustin Johnson became a U.S. Open champion and world No. 1 golfer, he found himself at a crossroads — and standing in his path was none other than Wayne Gretzky. Back in 2016, as Johnson was battling substance abuse issues, the NHL legend reportedly issued a stern warning to his future son-in-law: clean up or there would be no wedding. Behind closed doors, Wayne Gretzky laid down the law in 2016 Although Dustin Johnson and Paulina Gretzky had been engaged since 2013, their road to marriage was anything but smooth. Amid Johnson's well-documented struggles — including failed drug tests and a self-imposed break from the PGA Tour — Gretzky was not willing to turn a blind eye. According to a 2016 Fox report, the Hall of Famer privately cautioned Johnson that the wedding would be off if he didn't take accountability. 'I will use this time to seek professional help for personal challenges I have faced,' Johnson said at the time, stepping away from the tour to focus on recovery. The pressure wasn't just public scrutiny — it was personal. Gretzky, fiercely protective of his daughter Paulina, wanted Johnson to not only change for himself but prove he could be a reliable partner and father. From rehab to redemption — a championship comeback Thankfully, Johnson took the challenge seriously. The golfer not only returned to the sport later that year, but made a powerful comeback by winning his first Major, the U.S. Open. A year later, he rose to become the world's top-ranked golfer, silencing doubters and solidifying his legacy. Gretzky's hard stance clearly struck a chord. The 'Great One' wasn't just trying to intimidate — he was helping Johnson face reality. And in doing so, he may have saved both his career and his future with Paulina. Also Read: 'People felt betrayed': Wayne Gretzky's ties with Donald Trump resurface and spark heated debate in Canada After nearly a decade of engagement, Johnson and Paulina finally tied the knot in 2022, marking the end of a long, turbulent chapter. It's a testament to redemption, and perhaps to the power of a father's unwavering standards. As for Gretzky, he never made the issue public — but his quiet intervention made all the difference. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Jonnu Smith blasts Miami Dolphins after trade, accuses team of disrespecting his value
Jonnu Smith expressed disappointment after the Dolphins traded him to the Steelers (Image via AP) Jonnu Smith isn't hiding how he feels after being traded from the Miami Dolphins to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite his professionalism, the veteran tight end made it clear that the move stung—especially after the Dolphins refused to offer him a new contract following his breakout 2024 season. Jonnu Smith reveals emotional side of trade, says Dolphins didn't value him like a Pro Bowler In a candid conversation on teammate Terron Armstead's podcast, Smith opened up about his reaction to the trade and the failed contract talks that preceded it. 'Going through that process, I was hurt,' he said. 'I didn't think that collectively—as an organization, players, coaches—I didn't think that [they believed] trading Jonnu Smith, that's where our success starts.' The Dolphins, according to Smith, told him they couldn't 'economically' justify paying him at a Pro Bowl level, despite his stellar season in 2024 where he caught 88 passes for 884 yards and 8 touchdowns. 'That one stung,' Smith admitted. Pittsburgh welcomes Jonnu Smith with respect—and a payday Once it became clear that Miami wouldn't budge on compensation, Smith began looking elsewhere. 'I had to make the decision to say, man, well I've got to go where I am appreciated and viewed on paper, economically, contract-wise as a top guy in this league—which I know I am,' he explained. 'And Pittsburgh was the team that saw me as that.' The Steelers wasted no time showing their faith, giving Smith a one-year, $12 million extension as part of the deal that also saw cornerback Jalen Ramsey head to Pittsburgh. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 月 **,***원대 '실비보험' 최적가 비교가입! "月 보험료 낮추고, 보장은 실속있게"… 굿리치 [등록번호:제2006038313호] Undo In exchange, the Dolphins received star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. Though Smith insisted he has 'no ill feelings' toward the Dolphins, it's hard to ignore the timing of the Steelers' schedule. Pittsburgh is set to face Miami in Week 15, giving Smith a chance to show his former team what they let go. Also Read: Where is Armani Latimer now? Inside the former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader's life after season 2 retirement and alopecia advocacy Given his comments and the motivation behind them, that matchup could be one of the most personal games on the calendar for the tight end. Now, in black and gold, Smith is looking forward to proving Miami wrong—and proving the Steelers right. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
