Ahead of the upcoming 2025 NFL season, there is still a big question hanging over the Pittsburgh Steelers. That question has everything to do with the future of superstar pass rusher T.J. Watt.
Currently, the two sides are at a standoff when it comes to a new contract for Watt. He has made it clear that he wants a pay raise and he also deserves one.
While the Steelers are more than open to a new contract for Watt, the two sides have yet to come together on a number that will get an agreement in place.
Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images
With training camp coming up later this month, the clock is ticking. The two sides need to figure out a way to get a new deal done as soon as possible.
Read more: Steelers Receive Concerning Mike Tomlin News
Due to the delay in a contract getting done, trade rumors have been the latest development. Some believe that Watt could actually get moved instead of the two parties agreeing to a new deal.
Despite all of the rumors, a new update has been given about the situation.
According to a report from ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, Pittsburgh badly wants Watt to stay in town. Unfortunately, contracts can be difficult situations to figure out.
“I talked to somebody with the team who said, ‘Look, these are complicated deals to do, but we are working on it. We want T.J. Watt here,'” Fowler said.
“It’s guaranteed money, and it’s term length. A lot of the details, they get sticky this time of year, especially as you’re leading up to training camp.”
It’s clear that the Steelers are working hard to keep the face of their franchise in town long-term. Watt also seems to prefer staying in Pittsburgh, but he wants to get paid what he deserves.
Read more: Vikings’ JJ McCarthy Set to Have Major Distinction in 2025
Last season with the Steelers, Watt played in all 17 regular season games. He racked up 61 tackles, 11.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and four defended passes. Those numbers make the Pittsburgh superstar one of the best defensive threats in the NFL.
Even though there is no agreement in place, Watt leaving the Steelers would be a major shock. The most likely outcome is that the two sides will get a deal done.
That being said, the two sides still need to come to an agreement. All fans can do at this point in time is wait and hope the two parties can get something done soon.
For more Pittsburgh Steelers and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.