T.J. Watt, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ standout pass rusher, wants to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.
The talented pass-rusher skipped required minicamp and is apparently dissatisfied with his current contract.
Aditi Kinkhabwala, a CBS Sports NFL reporter, revealed in a recent radio interview that there was a separation between Watt and the organization, similar to what happened during discussions in 2021.
“T.J. Watt was openly told, ‘You’re lucky to be a Steeler.'” His response was, ‘You’re fortunate to have me.’ The Steelers’ attitude, the Steelers’ perspective, and you can see this in so many supporters, is that it is such a privilege to be in this outfit, to wear this helmet,” Kinkhabwala said of the 2021 discussions. “Therefore you should take a hometown discount just because you get to play for one of these cornerstone, trademark organizations.”
If Watt eventually signs a contract that resets the market for pass-rushers, the value of Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson could skyrocket.
Currently, the former No. 2 overall pick, Watt, and Trey Hendrickson are all potentially in line for significant price increases, as Maxx Crosby and Myles Garrett have reset the market in recent months.
“There are many potential ways this may go. “Certainly, you know that T.J. Watt is frustrated right now that things aren’t working out here,” NFL Insider Tom Pellisero told Rich Eisen this week. “What do I see as the most likely path for this to be resolved between now and September 8, when they open? They end up making a deal with TJ Watt.
When does this happen? What do the numbers look like. All I can tell you, Rich, is that it will be quite expensive. And I believe, again, that pending any other acquisitions that come through between now and then, we will see a reset in the edge market.”
Even if former Detroit Lions offensive lineman Jon Jansen recommended the former Michigan Wolverines defensive end to bet on himself and wait until next summer, the Lions may want to lock down their best defensive player with a long-term contract.Given the numerous deals awaiting the team’s other key players, a rising price tag may make things far too difficult for general manager Brad Holmes and the Lions’ front office.
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