The recent moves by the Pittsburgh Steelers have stirred up significant speculation surrounding the future of one of their franchise players, T.J. Watt. While no official statement has been made by the organization, fans and analysts are buzzing about the possibility of the star pass rusher being traded, especially in light of the team’s latest high-profile acquisitions and financial decisions.
On Monday, the Steelers made headlines by executing trades for cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith, signaling a serious push to strengthen their roster ahead of the upcoming NFL season. The addition of Ramsey, a six-time Pro Bowler and former All-Pro, is expected to bring veteran leadership and elite coverage ability to Pittsburgh’s secondary. Ramsey is also receiving a $1.5 million raise, which brings his total earnings for the season to $26.6 million. This generous payout reflects the team’s willingness to invest heavily in defensive talent.
Meanwhile, Jonnu Smith is set to earn $12 million on a one-year contract extension, solidifying his role as a versatile tight end option in Pittsburgh’s offensive scheme. Smith’s physicality and ability to contribute both as a blocker and pass-catcher should provide additional support for quarterback Kenny Pickett or whoever is under center.
However, these financial commitments have prompted questions about how much salary cap space the Steelers have left, particularly with T.J. Watt reportedly unhappy that he has yet to receive a new contract. The 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year has been a cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense since he was selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Over the past eight seasons, Watt has racked up an impressive 108 career sacks, cementing his place among the NFL’s most dominant pass rushers.
With the Steelers doling out lucrative contracts to other players, some insiders believe that tension is brewing within the organization. Watt is known to be a fiercely competitive athlete with a deep loyalty to the franchise, but his patience may be wearing thin. The lack of progress toward a new contract has reportedly caught the attention of other teams around the league.
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, discussions are already taking place within multiple front offices about the possibility of acquiring Watt in a trade. While these are only internal conversations at this stage, the buzz is growing louder by the day. The situation could escalate if Pittsburgh fails to make meaningful progress with Watt on a new deal.
One team that has been mentioned as a potential landing spot is the Detroit Lions, who are emerging as serious contenders in the NFC. CBS Sports highlighted Detroit as a plausible destination for Watt, especially given their current defensive strategy and financial flexibility. The Lions already have Aidan Hutchinson, one of the league’s top young pass rushers, but they have been looking for a more reliable complement to him on the opposite edge.
Last year, the Lions experimented by bringing in Za’Darius Smith, and they reportedly attempted to trade up during the draft for more edge rushing help. Watt would instantly elevate Detroit’s defense and could be the final piece in a Super Bowl-contending puzzle. Financially, Detroit is in a strong position as well, with over $40 million in salary cap space for 2025, making it feasible for them to take on Watt’s contract or restructure a new one that meets his expectations.
Despite the growing speculation, the Steelers have not indicated any willingness to entertain trade offers for Watt. The team’s leadership remains confident that a long-term agreement will eventually be reached with their defensive star. In public statements, Pittsburgh has emphasized that Watt is a foundational player and remains a central figure in their long-term plans.
Still, the situation is becoming increasingly delicate. Watt has earned widespread respect both within the organization and across the league for his relentless effort, leadership, and production. Losing him would not only create a major hole in the defense but also likely trigger backlash from fans who view him as the heart and soul of the team.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Steelers’ front office. If contract talks with Watt continue to stall, the chatter surrounding a potential blockbuster trade will only grow louder. Teams with cap space and championship aspirations are already positioning themselves to make a move if the opportunity arises.
For now, Watt remains a Steeler. But with rising payroll commitments to new players, a restless superstar, and other franchises circling like sharks in the water, the next few weeks could be pivotal in shaping both the future of T.J. Watt and the trajectory of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
