Pittsburgh Steelers are facing regret over T.J. Watt’s big contract extension given last offseason. While Watt, known for his leadership and talent, had declining production in 2024 with only 7 sacks, the franchise might be questioning their loyalty decision. Former scout John Middlekauff stated that they may have made a mistake by not trading Watt when his value was high. With a hefty $32 million guaranteed over the next two years, the Steelers must address potential challenges if his performance doesn't improve.

By the Numbers
  • T.J. Watt had 7 sacks and 10 tackles for a loss in 2024.
  • His contract guarantees him $32 million for the next two years.
State of Play
  • The Steelers are evaluating internal contracts, with Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig all under agreement.
  • Watt's performance dip raises concerns about his trade value and role within the team.
  • New defensive coordinator Patrick Graham may provide an opportunity for Watt to improve.
What's Next

If Watt's performance does not rebound, the Steelers could reconsider their defensive lineup, possibly leading to trade speculation around other players. The impact of a new defensive scheme and training may be critical for Watt’s resurgence.

Bottom Line

The Steelers must navigate the financial implications of Watt's costly extension while balancing team performance and potential player trades. Improving Watt's production is crucial to avoid long-term regrets from the contract decision.