In latest weeks, a number of groups have been discussing whether or not they can commerce for Pittsburgh Steelers standout cross rusher T.J. Watt, who skipped the staff’s most up-to-date minicamp, sources informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
The Steelers have not proven any willingness to deal Watt to this point, however he is sad together with his contractual state of affairs and sources imagine outdoors staff curiosity is more likely to enhance given Monday’s commerce that despatched cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight finish Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins to Pittsburgh in change for security Minkah Fitzpatrick.
The Steelers have been adamant they need Watt to complete his profession in Pittsburgh.
Ramsey is getting a $1.5 million increase this season, bringing his 2025 compensation as much as $26.6 million, sources informed Schefter. The Steelers are taking up the majority of Ramsey’s contract for this season, with the Dolphins paying $3 million, sources informed Schefter. Smith will obtain a one-year contract extension price $12 million, brokers Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey informed Schefter.
Watt, who’s coming into the ultimate yr of his contract with the Steelers, additionally skipped voluntary OTAs this offseason as he tried to barter a brand new deal.
Watt final signed a four-year, $112 million deal in 2021 that averaged $28 million per yr. Myles Garrett reset the cross rusher market three months in the past, nonetheless, with a file deal that averages $40 million yearly and consists of $123.5 million in assured cash, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL historical past.
Watt, who turns 31 in October, hasn’t spoken publicly because the finish of the 2024 season, however he seemingly expressed frustration with the negotiations in April when he posted an image to his Instagram story of himself flashing a peace sign up a Steelers jersey.
Watt has 108 profession sacks — 5.5 greater than Garrett and the sixth most amongst energetic NFL gamers. The four-time All-Professional was the NFL’s Defensive Participant of the 12 months in 2021 and has spent his complete eight-year profession with the Steelers.
ESPN’s Brooke Pryor contributed to this report.
