Pittsburgh Steelers’ star linebacker T.J. Watt has recently become the center of attention due to his absence from the team’s Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and a cryptic social media post, both of which have fueled speculation about his future with the franchise.
OTAs are voluntary offseason workouts where players can engage in team-building and practice sessions.
I’mWhile participation is not mandatory, Watt’s decision to skip these activities has raised eyebrows, especially given the context of his current contract situation.
- Entering the final year of his four-year, \$112 million extension signed in 2021, Watt is set to earn a base salary of \$21.05 million in 2025.
This figure is notably lower than recent contracts secured by other elite pass rushers, such as Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns, who inked a deal averaging \$40 million annually .
The absence from OTAs, coupled with Watt’s recent Instagram post—a photo of himself flashing a peace sign without any caption—has led to widespread speculation among fans and analysts.
Some interpret the post as a signal of discontent or a possible farewell gesture, while others believe it might be a strategic move to apply pressure on the Steelers’ management for a contract extension .
Despite the swirling rumors, both Watt and the Steelers’ front office have expressed a mutual desire to continue their partnership. In January 2025, Watt stated, “I want to be a Pittsburgh Steeler… I don’t want to leave this place. I want to be part of the solution” .
Echoing this sentiment, Steelers’ General Manager Omar Khan emphasized the organization’s commitment to retaining Watt, describing him as a “legacy guy” and expressing confidence in reaching a new agreement .
The NFL’s financial landscape has evolved significantly since Watt’s last extension. The salary cap has seen substantial increases, and the market for top-tier defensive players has been redefined by contracts like Garrett’s.
This shift suggests that Watt’s next deal could approach or even surpass the \$40 million per year benchmark, aligning with his proven track record and value to the team .
While the timing of Watt’s OTA absence and his ambiguous social media activity have led to various interpretations, it’s essential to recognize that OTAs are voluntary.
Players often make individual decisions about participation based on personal and professional considerations.
As negotiations unfold, the Steelers and Watt appear to be navigating the process with a shared goal of extending their successful collaboration.
In the high-stakes world of the NFL, contract discussions are complex and multifaceted. Watt’s situation underscores the delicate balance between player aspirations and team strategies.
As both parties work towards a resolution, fans remain hopeful that the standout linebacker will continue to be a cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense for years to come.
