This offseason, Watt was coming into into the ultimate season of his earlier four-year deal. Looking for long-term monetary safety, Watt and his crew engaged in contract talks that took longer than either side seemingly wished. He sat out minicamp and in varied interviews, mentioned his frustrations with the negotiations. There was a number of outdoors buzz as properly, with many Steelers followers questioning why the franchise was hesitant to pay the famous person and others speculating on a attainable commerce.
The deal cements Watt’s place as among the finest gamers within the recreation. At simply 30, Watt has put collectively fairly the resume. He has amassed 108 sacks, 462 combined tackles and 33 forced fumbles in solely eight seasons. Watt is a 4‑time First‑crew All‑Professional, seven‑time Pro Bowler, and the NFL’s Defensive Participant of the 12 months again in 2021, when he tied the single-season sack report with 22.5.
Watt has confirmed himself to already be a first-ballot Corridor of Famer, and his price to this franchise is immeasurable, not simply in stats and accolades, however within the identification and normal he brings to the Steelers’ protection yr after yr.
Now that the drama is resolved, Watt will start coaching camp in only a few days. Watt will proceed to be a vocal chief on this protection because the Steelers head right into a pivotal 2025 season, with new quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Whereas the negotiation course of could have examined some relationships, the ultimate consequence is obvious: an iconic Steeler will stay in Pittsburgh. The noise can formally cease, and now all eyes are targeted on the 2025 NFL season.
