It seems the contract situation with T.J. Watt is becoming quite complicated for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Recent reports suggest negotiations aren’t progressing, and his trade value might not be as high as expected.
Steelers reporter Mark Kaboly mentioned that if Watt were to be traded, the team might receive a second-round pick. He emphasized that the Steelers are exploring their options to ensure they make informed decisions about Watt’s future.
On ESPN’s “Unsportsmanlike,” insider Adam Schefter stated that the Steelers and Watt are “far apart” in contract discussions. He pointed out an inconsistency: how can the Steelers want to keep Watt while being so distant in talks? It’s a tough spot for both the player and the franchise.
T.J. Watt, who is 30 years old, has established himself as one of the NFL’s top defensive players. With 108 career sacks and 33 forced fumbles, he had a standout year last season, leading the league in forced fumbles and posting 11.5 sacks.
Interestingly, Watt seems to be using fellow defensive star Myles Garrett’s contract as a standard for his negotiations. Garrett’s four-year extension, which pays out $40 million annually, could set a high bar for Watt’s deal. This puts pressure on the Steelers to consider their financial options carefully.
When it comes to trade talks, it’s likely that a second-round pick is the best offer the Steelers can expect. Kaboly noted that the team’s willingness to shop Watt shows uncertainty about the situation. However, with major contract demands and his age, any potential trade value might shrink.
In the grand scheme, contract disputes like this aren’t new in the NFL. Historical comparisons show that other stars have faced similar challenges, often leading to tough decisions for both players and franchises. For now, the Steelers must navigate this tricky waters while fans wait to see how it unfolds.
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