**Contract Extension Details: NFL Offseason All-Pro Linebacker T.J. Watt Officially Signs a 2-Year, \$30 Million Deal with the Steelers**

In a major move that ensures continuity and leadership on one of the NFL’s most storied defenses, **All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt** has officially signed a **2-year, \$30 million contract extension** with the **Pittsburgh Steelers**, the team confirmed Monday. The extension keeps Watt in black and gold through the end of the 2027 season and marks a firm commitment by the franchise to one of its most dominant and influential players.
The deal includes **\$22 million in guaranteed money**, with incentives tied to sacks, tackles for loss, and team performance, according to sources close to the negotiations. Watt, who was set to enter the final year of his current contract, will now remain the face of the Steelers’ defense for at least two more seasons, as the team continues to build around his elite pass-rushing ability.
Watt, 30, has been one of the most feared defensive players in the league since entering the NFL in 2017. Over his career, he has amassed **87.5 sacks, 25 forced fumbles, and countless game-changing plays**, including leading the league in sacks in 2021 with 22.5—tying Michael Strahan’s single-season record. He’s also a five-time Pro Bowler, three-time First-Team All-Pro, and 2021 Defensive Player of the Year.
In a statement released by the Steelers, General Manager Omar Khan praised Watt’s dedication and leadership. “T.J. represents everything we want in a Pittsburgh Steeler—tough, relentless, professional, and driven. He changes games, sets the tone for our defense, and is a leader on and off the field. We’re thrilled to keep him here.”
Watt spoke to reporters after the extension was announced, expressing gratitude and focus. “Pittsburgh is home. It’s where I started, and it’s where I want to finish. I love this city, this locker room, and these fans. I’m thankful to the organization for believing in me, and now it’s time to go to work. We’ve got unfinished business.”
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin echoed the sentiment, saying, “T.J. is a generational player. He’s the heartbeat of our defense and a competitor who sets the standard every day. You don’t just keep a guy like that—you build around him.”
The contract extension also provides some cap flexibility for the Steelers, who are looking to make strategic roster improvements in free agency and the draft. With Watt secured, Pittsburgh maintains stability on defense while positioning itself for a deeper playoff push in the years ahead.
Steelers fans took to social media with excitement and relief. Hashtags like #WattStays and #SteelCurtainReloaded quickly trended, as supporters praised the organization for locking in one of its all-time greats.
This deal not only keeps a defensive cornerstone in Pittsburgh but also reinforces the franchise’s identity—tough, loyal, and built on defensive excellence. With T.J. Watt locked in, the Steelers’ future looks fierce.
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