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TJ Watt becomes NFL's highest-paid defensive player

By JAKE NISSE

Published: 16:28 EDT, 17 July 2025 | Updated: 16:40 EDT, 17 July 2025

Steelers pass rusher TJ Watt has agreed to a massive new extension with the team - and become the league's highest-paid defender in the process.

Watt, 30, skipped OTAs and minicamp as he sought a new deal, and was even linked with a shock trade out of Pittsburgh.

However, the four-time All-Pro is going nowhere after signing a three-year, $123million deal with the team according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The contract also includes $108 guaranteed.

Watt is set to earn just over $21million this season in the last year of his previous contract.

ESPN previously reported that a number of team held talks about whether they could trade for Watt, the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year.

Pass rusher TJ Watt has agreed a new deal to remain with the Pittsburgh Steelers

Watt's new contract is set to pay him an average of $41million - surpassing the $40million per year that Myles Garrett's new deal will see him earn.

More to follow

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