Pittsburgh, PA – July 11, 2025
No one wants to believe it. But the whispers are growing louder — like a cold wind curling through the Iron City: Could the Pittsburgh Steelers actually consider moving on from T.J. Watt?
When ESPN analyst and former NFL cornerback Dominique Foxworth raised the scenario on national television, it sent chills down the spines of Steelers fans everywhere. Not because it’s inevitable. But because... it’s plausible.
Foxworth wasn’t talking about a typical trade. He referenced a recent blockbuster deal — the one that sent Minkah Fitzpatrick to Miami and brought back Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith. A win-now swap between contenders. A star-for-star reset.
T.J. Watt could be the next name on the table — if Pittsburgh fumbles this moment.
Everyone in the building claims the team is “all-in” this season. But reality paints a more complicated picture. Watt is entering the final year of his contract. His market value is soaring, likely to surpass Myles Garrett’s $160 million deal. And so far — there’s been no real traction toward a new agreement.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, multiple teams would immediately jump into the bidding war if Watt were to hit the trade block. They’re watching. Waiting. Because they know what he brings: leadership, sacks, and a legacy.
Foxworth was blunt: “I don’t see them trading him for draft picks. If anything, it would take a proven starter and significant draft capital.” And let’s be honest — if the Steelers explore that route, the league will explode.
Still, as of today, both sides prefer to stay together. The Steelers don’t want to move Watt. Watt doesn’t want to leave. But in the NFL, contracts don’t run on loyalty — they run on leverage.
That’s why Pittsburgh is standing on a razor’s edge. Extend him now... or risk losing the soul of the defense without getting anything back.
And if things unravel? That’s when all hell breaks loose in the Steel City.
Stay tuned to ESPN for the latest on the Watt situation and all breaking NFL storylines.
