T.J. Watt will be showing up at the Pittsburgh Steelers ' training camp next week. He'll be doing so with very heavy pockets. On Thursday, the team reached a deal with the four-time first-team Associated Press All-Pro outside linebacker, who didn't attend the team's mandatory minicamp last month as he waited for the contract.
"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," ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter wrote Thursday on X. "The $41 million per year average is the highest of any non-quarterback in NFL history. The deal has been in the works between CAA sports and the Steelers front office for months."
Watt's new pact surpasses the Cleveland Browns' Myles Garrett as being the richest for any pass rusher. It also eclipses the money Cincinnati Bengals standout receiver Ja'Marr Chase is making. It also washes away any rumors that Watt will be shipped away.
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt during a game against the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 14, 2025. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
Watt has the most sacks in the NFL since 2020, racking up 73.5 during that time. Garrett trails closely behind, with 72. Watt finished fourth in Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year voting last season, totaling 61 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, and a league-best six forced fumbles.
He did deal with minor ailments throughout the season, which might have slowed him some near the end of the campaign. He didn't post a traditional statistic over the final two games, including the Steelers' playoff loss against the Baltimore Ravens .
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now : BREAKING: Steelers Extend T.J. Watt in Record Breaking Deal
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