The Green Bay Packers could be among other NFL teams eyeing a potential trade to land Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt, according to CBS Sports.
Watt, a former Wisconsin Badger, has proven himself a formidable defensive force by racking up a whopping 108 career sacks since joining the Black and Gold in 2017. He also marked 331 solo career tackles with the team, which helped land him at number 11 on the NFL’s top 100 player rankings for 2025.
While the Steelers are reportedly intent on keeping the all-pro pass rusher on the squad, Watt has been noticeably absent from the team’s mandatory June training camp amid stagnating contract negotiations. This situation led NFL insider Adam Schefter to report “multiple teams” have begun weighing options for a potential trade for Watt.
The Steelers this offseason signed big names like quarterback Aaron Rodgers, wide receiver DK Metcalf and cornerback Jalen Ramsey, proving the team is capable of locking down major talent. With opposing AFC North pass rushers like Miles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns raking in $40 million per year, Watt could be naming a high price for his next agreement.
CBS sports writer Cody Benjamin predicted Green Bay could make a suitable landing spot for Watt should the negotiations fall through.
T.J. Watt pursues former Green Bay Packer Aaron Rodgers
T.J. Watt pursues former Green Bay Packer Aaron Rodgers
© William Glasheen / USA TODAY NETWORK
“The Packers aren't necessarily in dire need of a pass rusher with Rashan Gary headlining their group, but with Lukas Van Ness coming along slowly, why would they turn down a perennial All-Pro as they look to make a leap as a playoff contender?” Benjamin asked. “In the year 2025, when an ex-Packers great in Aaron Rodgers is trying to save Pittsburgh, this kind of a blockbuster swap would only be fitting.”
Seeing Watt return to play in his home state would likely make him an instant hit with Packer fans. Such a trade may also scratch an itch stemming back to the playing days of T.J.’s now-retired brother J.J. Watt, who had previously described the potential of playing for his favorite team as a “fairy tale.”
The Packers also recently freed up cap space by releasing cornerback Jaire Alexander, meaning they could use those funds to offer Watt a deal to make him the highest-paid pass rusher in the league.
Other teams potentially considering Watt include the Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks, Benjamin wrote.