Steelers face contract challenges with T.J. Watt ahead of 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 11:00 PM
Last updated Jun 12, 2026
As the 2026 NFL season approaches, the Pittsburgh Steelers are contending with uncertainty regarding edge rusher T.J. Watt's performance and contract situation. Watt has been selected for eight consecutive Pro Bowls but saw his sack totals decline from 19 in 2023 to just seven in 2025. His three-year extension worth $123 million has been labeled one of the worst contracts in the league, with future implications for the team, especially if his performance continues to falter. The Steelers may face difficulty moving on from Watt, as cutting him would not provide salary relief.
- •T.J. Watt has seen a drop in sack totals over recent seasons.
- •Watt's contract is considered one of the worst in the NFL.
- •The Steelers may struggle to move on from Watt due to financial implications.
- •Watt's performance in 2026 is crucial for his future with the team.
- 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers face brutal T.J. Watt reality ahead of 2026 NFL season
"The Pittsburgh Steelers have seen edge rusher T.J. Watt develop into a Hall of Fame player, but the team faces a brutal reality involving the eight-time Pro Bowler that simply can't be ignored.
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