Steelers’ T.J. Watt becomes highest-paid non-QB in NFL history
After a long standoff between the Pittsburgh Steelers and superstar T.J. Watt, the two sides have finally come to terms on a new long-term contract extension.
According to Brooke Pryor of ESPN, Watt has inked a three-year contract extension, which will make NFL history.
T.J. Watt and the Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to a three-year extension that will make him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history — again.
With Watt being arguably the best player in the league at his position, it comes as no surprise that he would sign such a historic deal that will pay him $123 million. This will also put an end to any speculation about his departure and potentially set him up to retire with the storied franchise down the line.
Watt, who turns 31 in October, agreed to a three-year, $123 million extension with the Steelers on Thursday afternoon, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter, ending a contentious, monthslong contract negotiation. The deal comes with $108 million fully guaranteed at signing, and the $41 million average per year tops the $40.25 average salary given to Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and the $40 million awarded to Cleveland Browns standout edge rusher Myles Garrett earlier this offseason.
Although Watt is currently the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, that distinction will likely end soon, with Micah Parsons of the Dallas Cowboys expected to be the next superstar pass rusher to sign a new deal.
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Parsons and his representation will likely use Watt’s deal to leverage getting paid more and set the bar a little higher moving forward for defensive stars of their caliber.
