T.J. Watt’s $123M Contract Extension Marks NFL’s New Benchmark for Non-Quarterbacks
The Pittsburgh Steelers and star pass rusher T.J. Watt have finalized a three-year, $12,000,000 contract extension that makes Watt the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback in league history. The agreement, reported by multiple outlets including ESPN, comes after a high-profile negotiation process that saw Watt skip mandatory minicamp earlier this year as a strategic move to signal his desire for a new deal ahead of the 2025 season.
This deal follows the recent contract extension of Myles Garrett, who previously held the title of top-paid non-quarterback with a $40 million annual salary with the Cleveland Browns. Watt’s $123 million total is spread over three years, averaging nearly $41 million per year, significantly surpassing the previous standard set by Garrett. The financial terms of the deal reflect the growing market value for elite defensive players in the NFL.
Watt, the 2021 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, is entering the final year of his previous contract, which was a $112 million extension signed in September 2021. The new agreement will see him enter a new phase in his NFL career, with his stellar performance continuing to command top-tier compensation. The Steelers’ willingness to offer such a lucrative deal underscores their commitment to retaining one of their most impactful players.
The decision to skip minicamp earlier this year was a noticeable shift from Watt’s approach in 2021, when he did a ‘hold in’ during both minicamp and training camp before agreeing to a contract on the eve of the regular season. This new approach indicates a more proactive stance from Watt in negotiating his terms, highlighting the importance of financial consideration in the modern NFL landscape.
Watt’s impact on the Steelers’ defensive strategy has been significant, and his continued dominance in sacks and Pro Bowl selections has made him a key asset for the team. With the 2025 season approaching, the Steelers’ management appears to have successfully secured Watt’s future, ensuring their star pass rusher remains with the franchise for the foreseeable future.
While the specific details of the contract’s structure weren’t disclosed, the financial magnitude of the deal highlights the increasing financial stakes for elite players in the NFL. This trend is expected to continue as the league progresses, with top players commanding even higher compensation as their market value rises.