By Ray Porter Jr. for Urban Media Today
It has truly been an incredible off-season for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they’ve made splash moves just about few weeks. A few weeks ago, they acquired CB Jalen Ramsey and TE Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins for S Minkah Fitzpatrick. On Wednesday, they made their biggest splash move since the signing of Future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers in March: Signing LB and fellow future Hall of Famer TJ Watt to a new contract extension.
Per ESPN, Watt has become the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history for the second time in his career, agreeing on a three-year, $123 million extension that includes $108M fully guaranteed at signing. The $41 million per year average is the highest defensive player in NFL history (surpassing Cleveland DE Myles Garrett).
Many media types had concerns about whether Watt, 31, would make it to training camp (scheduled to open July 23) as he held out from team OTA’s (Organized Team Activities) and Mandatory Mini camp. Many suggested that they trade the All-Pro LB and it was rumored that several teams had inquired of his services. ESPN reported the deal has been in the works between CAA Sports and the Steelers front office for months.
Since 2017, Watt has led the NFL in sacks (108),QB hits (225), tackles for loss (126). and forced fumbles (33). His best season was 2021 when he tied the NFL’s all-time Sack record (with Hall of Famer Michael Strahan) with 22.5, good for NFL Defensive Player of the Year, the 8th Steeler to win the award.
Watt is also a 7-time Pro Bowler, 4-time 1st team All-Pro, and a 2nd team All-Pro. He is also a 3-time Deacon Jones award winner (given to the NFL Season Sack Leader)
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