Steelers send T.J. Watt to Patriots for standout safety in bold trade prediction

USA Today

9 hours ago

T.J. Watt trade speculation is reaching an all-time high — when analysts aren't predicting if he'll re-sign with the Steelers, they're predicting where he'll land next.
Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski recently predicted four trade packages for Watt — but arguably the most surprising sees Pittsburgh send their star defender to the Patriots for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-round pick, and former first-round safety Jabrill Peppers.
"Because the Patriots are still in transition, they can send veteran safety Jabrill Peppers back in return," Sobleski wrote. "They're unlikely to give up a future first-rounder, though. Pittsburgh still has DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill along the back line, but Peppers can be used as a defensive chess piece to help offset the loss of Minkah Fitzpatrick."
It almost feels criminal, even in a trade prediction, to suggest the Steelers would trade away Watt for anything less than a first-round pick. But considering the shocking George Pickens' and Minkah Fitzpatrick's packages this offseason, anything is possible.
Adam Schefter reported that while the Steelers aren't willing to deal their superstar defender, outside trade interest in Watt is expected to increase following the recent acquisitions of Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith.
It's unlikely Pittsburgh entertains any trade offers for Watt, but as negotiations drag on, one has to wonder — is a 30-year-old edge rusher, potentially exiting his prime, worth over $40 million per year?
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