T.J. Watt’s legacy in Pittsburgh is secure, but his future remains a question mark. Whether the two-finger photo was a hint at a career shift, a negotiation tactic, or simply an artistic post, it has succeeded in one thing: getting everyone talking
As the offseason unfolds, fans and analysts alike will keep watching Watt’s every move. Because when a player of his caliber speaks—especially in silence—the football world listens.
J.J. Watt’s comments on The Pat McAfee Show were a timely reminder of how important contract timing can be in the NFL. With T.J. Watt entering the final year of his current deal, the pressure is on the Steelers to act decisively.
The message is clear: don’t wait. Make the deal. Secure the cornerstone of your defense. Because if T.J. Watt hits the open market or grows frustrated with the process, the cost will only rise—and the consequences could ripple across the franchise.
For now, fans will watch and wait, hoping that Pittsburgh does what’s right for both the player and the team. The clock is ticking.
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Table of Contents
T.J. Watt and the Steel City: Legacy in Progress
T.J. Watt has long been the face of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense.1
Since being drafted 30th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, Watt has become a seven-time Pro Bowler and one of the most feared linebackers in the league.
With an aggressive motor, relentless pursuit, and unmatched leadership, Watt has defined a generation of Steelers football.
But in recent days, his future with the franchise has come under question, igniting a firestorm of speculation and debate among fans.
A Silent Message: Watt’s Instagram Sparks Questions
The controversy began when Watt posted a photo on Instagram that left fans puzzled. In the image, he’s seen in his Steelers uniform, holding up two fingers in the air. No caption. No follow-up.
Just Watt, in his jersey, sending a message open to interpretation. Social media exploded with theories, ranging from contract negotiations to hints at retirement or even a possible trade request.
In the era of athlete-driven branding and communication, cryptic posts often signal something deeper. Watt’s silence spoke volumes, leaving Steelers Nation both anxious and intrigued.
Congratulations Mink‼️ https://t.co/GrewD8vBEV
— TJ Watt (@_TJWatt) February 10, 2024
Fans React: Division Within Steelers Nation
Reactions from fans were swift and divided. Some interpreted the post as a subtle goodbye. A number of users on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram speculated that Watt may be hinting at retirement or a trade.
Others assumed it symbolized “peace,” suggesting closure, or maybe “two” as in the final year of his deal or counting down to something major.
One fan tweeted, “Trade him,” expressing that while Watt had been great, it might be time to capitalize on his value. Another added, “I’ll always appreciate 90, but it wouldn’t hurt my feelings to trade him for a f**k ton of picks.”
Still, others passionately defended Watt, with one fan writing, “Some of you are just miserable fans looking for something to complain about. T.J. Watt is the heart of this defense.”
Contract Status: A Looming Decision for Pittsburgh
Watt signed a four-year contract extension worth $112 million in 2021, making him the highest-paid defensive player at the time.
That contract is set to expire at the end of this upcoming season. The Steelers’ front office has yet to make any definitive statement on their plans moving forward.
Watt, now entering what could be the final year of his contract, faces an uncertain future. At 30 years old, he’s still elite, but the team must weigh long-term sustainability, salary cap flexibility, and the ever-changing landscape of the NFL.
T.J. Watt: Is Age a Factor?
A Superstar Still Dominant
Although some critics call him “aging,” Watt’s performance hasn’t dropped off. In fact, he led the NFL in sacks in multiple seasons and remains a game-changer every time he steps on the field.2
When Watt is active, the Steelers’ defense is markedly better. His leadership, instincts, and explosive play are rare commodities.
However, durability has become a mild concern. Watt has missed time in recent seasons due to injuries, prompting some to question how many peak years he has left. But even a slightly diminished Watt is still better than most at full strength.
The Trade Talk: Realistic or Reactionary?
Would the Steelers really consider trading their defensive cornerstone?
While the idea sounds unthinkable to many, the NFL is a business. Trading Watt could potentially bring in a massive haul—possibly multiple first-round picks or a package of young talent.
Teams in win-now mode would likely be aggressive in pursuing a generational talent like Watt.
But the emotional cost would be high. Watt has become synonymous with Steelers identity. Trading him could alienate a portion of the fanbase and send a signal that Pittsburgh is heading into a rebuilding phase—something fans have long resisted.
Steelers’ Silence: A Cause for Concern?
Perhaps what’s most alarming to fans is the lack of communication from the Steelers organization.
The team hasn’t released a public statement regarding Watt’s post or contract situation. In the vacuum of information, speculation grows.
The Steelers have a long history of loyalty to franchise legends, from Troy Polamalu to Ben Roethlisberger.
Letting Watt walk—or worse, trading him—would break that tradition and could signal a philosophical shift in how the team manages aging stars.
T.J. Watt: Leadership Beyond the Field
Watt isn’t just a defensive weapon—he’s a respected voice in the locker room and a mentor to younger players.3
His presence has elevated the likes of Alex Highsmith and others who have developed under his tutelage.
Veterans like Watt are essential in maintaining a winning culture. Even as his prime years start to wind down, his leadership can provide lasting value beyond the stat sheet. Losing that kind of influence would create a void that’s hard to fill.
Despite the rumors, there’s still a very real possibility Watt stays with Pittsburgh. A new contract extension could be on the table, possibly with restructured incentives that keep both sides happy.
Watt has never expressed public dissatisfaction with the team and has always embraced the blue-collar culture of the Steelers.
If the two sides can come to terms financially, there’s no reason to believe he won’t finish his career in black and gold.
What Does the Two-Finger Pose Mean? Theories Abound
As for the two-finger pose, fans have tossed around several theories:
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Peace Out: Some interpret it as a subtle goodbye.
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Two Years Left?: Maybe Watt is referencing the number of years he plans to continue playing.
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Victory Symbol: It could just be a symbol of triumph, perhaps in reference to offseason progress or team unity.
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Cryptic Countdown: Is Watt counting down to an announcement?
Until Watt explains the post or follows it up with more context, the mystery will persist.
The Brett Favre Parallels: Veterans and Uncertainty
Interestingly, the NFL has seen similar episodes before. Brett Favre famously left fans and teams hanging with cryptic statements and prolonged retirement decisions.
Watt’s Instagram post—while not nearly as dramatic—echoes that era in a digital age. Veteran players, especially stars, have the leverage to steer their narrative, and fans are left to read between the lines.
Media’s Role: Stirring the Speculation
Sports media outlets have capitalized on the ambiguity. Articles, debates, and opinion pieces have flooded the internet, further fueling theories. Analysts on talk shows have posed hypothetical trade destinations, while insiders question if this is a contract leverage move.
Whatever the reason, Watt’s single image has become a viral moment—and a textbook example of how powerful a silent post can be.
For now, all eyes remain on Watt and the Steelers’ front office. If contract talks begin to heat up or a press conference is called, fans might finally get the clarity they’re hoping for.
Until then, every subtle move, like a change in Watt’s social media bio or who he follows, will be examined under a microscope.
In the end, Steelers fans want what’s best for the team—but they also want to hold onto a player who’s given everything to the franchise.
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T.J. Watt’s Contract Situation
J.J. Watt Weighs In on Steelers’ Next Move
In the high-stakes world of the NFL, few topics generate more buzz than contract negotiations for star players.
For Pittsburgh Steelers fans, the focus is now squarely on linebacker T.J. Watt, one of the league’s most dominant defensive forces.
As he enters the final year of his current contract, conversations about an extension are intensifying.
Adding fuel to the discussion, former NFL star and Watt’s older brother, J.J. Watt, recently shared his perspective on the situation during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show.
J.J. Watt’s Message: Don’t Wait Too Long
During his segment with Pat McAfee, J.J. Watt emphasized the importance of getting a deal done early.
“He’s going into the last year of his deal,” Watt said. “So yeah, there’s no question [that conversations between T.J. Watt and the Steelers are happening]… The earlier things get done, the better it turns out. That’s all I’m saying.”
This statement wasn’t just a brotherly endorsement—it was a pointed suggestion from someone who understands the nuances of NFL contracts. J.J. Watt spent 12 seasons in the league and went through his own share of negotiations. His advice carries weight.
The Market Has Shifted: Myles Garrett’s Extension
The timing of Watt’s contract discussions comes at a pivotal moment. Just recently, Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett inked a massive four-year extension worth $160 million.
That deal reset the market for defensive players, making Garrett the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
Given Watt’s accolades and production, it’s hard to argue that he deserves anything less.
In fact, it may be reasonable to expect that Watt’s new deal will surpass Garrett’s—especially if the Steelers want to show their commitment to keeping a franchise player.
Why Early Negotiations Matter
- NFL contracts are complex and often involve long negotiations. However, waiting too long can backfire.
- For a player like Watt, who has already proven his value, delaying an extension only increases the risk that the cost will go up—especially if he puts together another All-Pro season in 2025.
- J.J. Watt’s comment that “the earlier things get done, the better it turns out” hints at this reality. Teams that strike early often secure better long-term value and avoid potential holdouts or trade demands.
- One factor that could impact negotiations is Pittsburgh’s salary cap situation. The Steelers are not traditionally big spenders in free agency, but they’ve shown a willingness to pay their stars.
- They made T.J. Watt the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history back in 2021 when they gave him a four-year, $112 million extension.
- Heading into the 2025 offseason, the Steelers will need to navigate several contract situations, but keeping Watt should be the top priority.
- With the salary cap projected to increase again next year, Pittsburgh has a chance to structure a deal that benefits both sides.
T.J. Watt’s Current Deal and Market Comparison
This upcoming season, Watt is set to earn a base salary of $21.05 million. While that’s a healthy figure, it’s below the market rate for elite pass-rushers.
Garrett’s new deal averages $40 million annually—a gap of nearly $19 million per year.
In a league where top-tier edge rushers are highly valued, this discrepancy is significant. If the Steelers want to retain Watt without controversy, they’ll need to close that gap with a lucrative extension.
Locker Room Leader and Cultural Icon
T.J. Watt’s value to the Steelers extends beyond the stat sheet. He’s a vocal leader in the locker room, a relentless worker, and a symbol of the franchise’s tough, gritty identity.
Pittsburgh has long prided itself on great defensive players—from Jack Lambert to Troy Polamalu—and Watt fits that mold perfectly.
Letting a player of Watt’s caliber walk would not only hurt the on-field product but also damage the culture that the Steelers have worked hard to maintain.
T.J. Watt: New Born
T.J. Watt and his wife Dania Marie Watt welcome to the world their baby girl Blakely Marie Watt.
View this post on Instagram
The Risk of Not Signing Him Early
History has shown that failing to secure a star player early in their final contract year can lead to complications. Players may become disgruntled, miss training camps, or even request trades. Watt has never shown signs of being that type of player, but why risk it?
The Steelers can avoid these potential pitfalls by engaging in serious talks now and locking in Watt before the 2025 season begins.
J.J. Watt’s public endorsement of his brother’s value wasn’t just familial support—it was a calculated message. As a retired player turned media personality, J.J. knows how to influence the narrative. His comments were likely meant to increase public pressure on the Steelers’ front office and spark fan support for an early extension.
He’s also uniquely qualified to speak on this issue. J.J. was the face of the Houston Texans for a decade, and his career path offers insight into what happens when teams fail to build properly around their stars.
A Potential Record-Breaking Extension?
If the Steelers do extend Watt this offseason, the numbers will likely be eye-popping. A contract in the range of $170–180 million over four or five years isn’t out of the question. That would place Watt at the top of the non-quarterback salary scale, right where many believe he belongs.
Such a deal would make a statement—not just about Watt’s value, but about the Steelers’ willingness to invest in their homegrown talent and continue building a contender.
Keeping Watt long-term gives Pittsburgh stability on defense for years to come. It also allows the team to focus on building around a proven superstar. With new pieces on offense and a young quarterback developing under center, the Steelers need consistency and leadership on the other side of the ball.
Watt provides that—and more.
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