BREAKING: Pittsburgh Steelers Re-Sign All-Pro Linebacker T.J. Watt to Four-Year Extension
PITTSBURGH, PA — June 25, 2025
In a monumental move that reaffirms their commitment to defensive dominance, the Pittsburgh Steelers have officially re-signed All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt to a new four-year contract extension. The deal ensures that one of the NFL’s most feared pass rushers will continue anchoring the Steelers’ defense in black and gold well into the future.
The franchise announced the extension early Wednesday morning, sending shockwaves across the league and eliciting cheers from the Steelers faithful. Though specific financial terms have yet to be disclosed, early reports suggest the deal makes Watt one of the highest-paid defensive players in NFL history—once again.
Watt, 30, has been the heart and soul of the Steelers’ defense since he was drafted in the first round out of Wisconsin in 2017. A five-time Pro Bowler and three-time First-Team All-Pro selection, Watt has consistently been a game-wrecker off the edge. In 2021, he tied Michael Strahan’s single-season sack record with 22.5 and won the AP Defensive Player of the Year award, cementing his place among the elite defenders in NFL history.
This new extension comes as Watt was entering the final year of his previous contract, signed in 2021, which at the time made him the highest-paid defensive player in the league. Despite injuries that limited his playing time in recent seasons, Watt has remained highly productive and a disruptive force on the field. In 2024, he finished with 15 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, and 2 interceptions, once again leading the Steelers’ defense to a top-10 ranking.
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan spoke to the media following the announcement, expressing the organization’s unwavering belief in Watt’s leadership and impact.
> “T.J. Watt represents everything the Pittsburgh Steelers stand for—grit, excellence, and relentless effort. He’s not only the face of our defense but a cornerstone of this franchise. We’re thrilled to keep him here where he belongs.”
Watt also shared his thoughts on social media shortly after the news broke, tweeting:
“Pittsburgh is home. Let’s bring another Lombardi back to the city. #HereWeGo”
The timing of the extension is strategic. With a rising core of young talent on the defensive front—including Alex Highsmith and Keeanu Benton—securing Watt ensures continuity and mentorship for the next generation. Head Coach Mike Tomlin emphasized the importance of Watt’s presence in the locker room and on the field.
> “T.J. leads by example every single day. His preparation, intensity, and commitment to excellence set the standard for everyone in this building.”
The extension also sends a clear message to the rest of the AFC North: the Steelers are all-in. With a bolstered offensive unit and a retooled secondary, Pittsburgh looks poised to make a serious push for playoff success in 2025 and beyond.
For fans, this signing represents more than just securing a player—it’s a reaffirmation of identity. Watt, much like past Steelers greats such as Troy Polamalu and James Harrison, has become synonymous with the franchise’s proud defensive tradition.
With this new deal in place, T.J. Watt will likely finish his career in Pittsburgh, potentially carving out a legacy as one of the greatest defenders the team—and the league—has ever seen.
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