Insider Would not See Steelers Buying and selling T.J. Watt This 12 months ‘Underneath Any Circumstances’

T.J. Watt was absent from OTAs this yr, and now, he’ll reportedly miss obligatory minicamp, too. He desires a contract extension from the Pittsburgh Steelers, however the two sides have but to agree on a deal. With Watt skipping minicamp, his future is unsure. It feels just like the Steelers will give him a brand new contract, however there’s no assure that can occur. Nevertheless, CBS Sports activities insider Jonathan Jones feels assured that Watt will play for the Steelers this yr.

“I don’t see, below any circumstances, T.J. Watt being on one other workforce apart from the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Jones stated Tuesday on CBS Sports activities HQ. “I feel, finally, they’re going to come to phrases on an settlement. One which they most likely ought to’ve come to phrases on months in the past, if not a yr in the past.”

Regardless of issues getting just a little messier throughout this contract dispute, it looks like Watt is destined to stay a Steeler. Pittsburgh doesn’t actually have a cause to commerce him. They’re not pressed for cap house, and so they’ve proven a dedication to successful. Buying and selling Watt strikes them additional away from their aim, particularly at this level within the offseason.

Nevertheless, Jones is appropriate that the Steelers put themselves on this scenario. In addition to an injury-riddled 2022 season, Watt has continued to be probably the greatest gamers within the league. He deserves a giant extension. The Steelers might’ve given it to him sooner, and they might’ve saved some cash.

As an alternative, they caught to their precedent, ensuing within the edge rusher market growing considerably. Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby reset the market. Additionally, Micah Parsons continues to be making an attempt to get an extension. If his deal will get carried out earlier than Watt’s, that price ticket will possible go up once more.

The Steelers will most likely get a deal carried out with Watt finally. They’ve taken care of most of their gamers earlier than. This deal is probably going taking just a little longer due to how a lot cash it entails. It’s a much bigger deal, so Pittsburgh might be exercising just a little extra warning in negotiations. Nonetheless, Watt is price each penny. Giving him the contract that he desires is the suitable transfer.