The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially capped off one of the boldest off-seasons in franchise history—and it’s turning heads far beyond the 412 area code.
On Thursday, the team finalized a monster three-year, $123 million extension with All-Pro edge rusher T.J. Watt, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL. For Steelers fans, it was a sigh of relief.
For everyone else, including NFL journeyman Chase Daniel, it was validation.
Daniel took to X after the news broke, doubling down on his support for Pittsburgh’s offseason overhaul. He called Mike Tomlin’s squad a playoff team, and honestly? He’s not wrong. But it’s a little late to be hopping on the Yinzer train.
This offseason has been nothing short of wild. First came the surprise trade for DK Metcalf. Then, the Steelers signed future Hall of Fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers to a one-year, $13.65 million deal—something few of us ever imagined.
As if that wasn’t enough, Jonnu Smith and Jalen Ramsey arrived via trade with the Dolphins, adding even more firepower and leadership to both sides of the ball.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are finally ready to compete in the 2025 regular season
And now, T.J. Watt—the anchor of the defense, the emotional heartbeat of the team—is locked in through 2028. The move adds serious stability to a locker room that’s already teeming with potential.
Chase Daniel giving the Steelers their flowers feels good, sure. But let’s be real—Steelers fans have known this team was cooking up something special for months. Watt’s extension is the exclamation point, the final punch of a heavyweight offseason.
With 108 career sacks and 33 forced fumbles, he’s not just a defensive star—he’s a game-changer. When he’s on the field, everything shifts.
More importantly, Watt brings leadership and hunger. He’s never been satisfied with individual accolades. Now, with an all-in front office and talent surrounding him like never before, this could be the year it all clicks.
So thank you, Chase Daniel, for the kind words—but the Steelers don’t need outside validation to believe they belong. This team is built to win now, and they’ve got the roster—and the heart—to do it.
Watt’s ready. The city’s buzzing. And trust me, Chase, there’s going to be one hell of a show in Pittsburgh this season.
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