The Pittsburgh Steelers have done a lot this offseason, but they had a huge question mark in T.J. Watt. The star pass rusher was seeking a new contract extension to make him one of the highest paid players at his position in the NFL. However, it appeared the two sides were far apart, due to the gauranteed money.
But on Thursday, the Steelers avoided catastrophe, as they agreed to terms with Watt on a three-year, $123 million contract extension. In this deal, Watt earns $41 million per year and $108 million guaranteed. That annual salary officially makes Watt the highest paid edge rusher in the NFL.
ESPN sources: Steelers star TJ Watt has become the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history for the second time in his illustrious career, reaching agreement today on a three-year, $123 million extension that includes $108M fully guaranteed at signing. The $41 million per year average…
— Adam Schefter  July 17, 2025
And with this signing, the pressure has now only increased for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Even though the quarterback hinted that this could be his last year, the Steelers can’t afford a bad season, due in part to their situation at the position beyond this year.
