PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially secured the future of their defensive cornerstone, as star linebacker T.J. Watt has agreed to terms on a new four-year contract extension. The deal, confirmed Monday, includes a significant pay raise, reaffirming Watt’s status as one of the NFL’s premier defenders.
Watt, 30, had two years remaining on his current deal, but the Steelers front office moved swiftly this offseason to lock him in through the 2029 season. While financial details have not been fully disclosed, league sources say the extension makes Watt one of the highest-paid defensive players in NFL history — a fitting reward for a player who has redefined edge rushing in Pittsburgh.
“This city and this team mean everything to me,” Watt said in a brief statement released by the team. “I’m grateful to continue wearing the black and gold, and I’m excited for what we can accomplish together.”
Since being drafted by Pittsburgh in 2017, Watt has become the heartbeat of the Steelers defense. A four-time First-Team All-Pro and 2021 Defensive Player of the Year, Watt holds the franchise record for sacks and continues to be a disruptive force on the field. Despite battling injuries last season, he still finished among league leaders in sacks and tackles for loss.
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan called the extension a “priority” for the franchise and praised Watt’s leadership both on and off the field.
“T.J. is everything you want in a Steeler — tough, driven, and committed to excellence,” Khan said. “This extension reflects not only what he’s done, but what we believe he’ll continue to do.”
The deal comes as the Steelers aim to rebuild around a young, aggressive defense while grooming a new-look offense. With Watt now under contract long-term, Pittsburgh is sending a clear message: they’re ready to win — and they’re doing it with their best player locked in for years to come.
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