T.j. Watt

Career StatsB

Year	Team	GP	Tkl	Sacks	INT
Career		135	517	115.0	9
2025		14	55	7.0	2
2024		17	61	11.5	0
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Steelers handed T.J. Watt a massive $41M AAV extension that earns a C CVI — a deal that feels like a slight overpay for even an elite pass rusher in today's market. While Watt remains an above-average starter who can still generate consistent pressure, this contract pushes the boundaries of what teams should invest in edge defenders, especially given the positional value concerns in modern NFL economics. At his current career stage, Watt is entering the phase where elite edge rushers typically see their production plateau, making the three-year commitment less risky than a longer deal but still concerning given the AAV. The $108M guaranteed figure represents substantial downside protection for Watt while limiting Pittsburgh's flexibility if his performance declines, particularly problematic for a franchise that needs to allocate resources across multiple positions. This contract essentially bets that Watt can maintain his current production level throughout the deal's duration, but the CVI suggests the Steelers are paying a premium that doesn't align with the expected return on investment for a player at this stage of his career.

Performance Analysis

T.j. Watt grades as an above-average starter among NFL linebackers — an above-average player at the position. His strongest area is passes defended at 0.57 (well above the NFL average of 0.20), ranking as elite for the position. Tackling, at 3.93 compared to an NFL average of 3.80, is where he falls short relative to the position. His profile suggests a pass-rush specialist rather than an every-down linebacker. With 135 career games, there is a large sample size backing this grade.

Current Sentiment

T.J. Watt remains one of the most decorated defensive players of his generation, with a DPOY award, 115 career sacks, and a contract reflecting his elite status on the Pittsburgh Steelers' roster. However, heading into the 2026 season, his media perception carries a layer of uncertainty driven by reports of a lung surgery recovery and emerging trade speculation, which have introduced questions about both his health and his long-term future in Pittsburgh. The trade rumors, while not definitively negative in tone, signal that the Steelers organization may be weighing roster and financial decisions that could affect Watt's standing, tempering what would otherwise be an overwhelmingly positive narrative. On the positive side, Watt's reported excitement to return to play against the Ravens following his surgery suggests he is motivated and on track, which has helped stabilize fan sentiment and media confidence in his near-term availability. Overall, Watt's perception remains firmly in star territory — buoyed by an unimpeachable career résumé — but the convergence of health concerns and trade chatter prevents him from reaching the ceiling of elite, unambiguous positivity heading into the new season.