The post, shared without context, has many wondering whether Watt is frustrated with stalled extension talks, especially as pass rushers like Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby have recently signed massive new deals.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly said the situation “bears monitoring,” suggesting the post “doesn’t appear to be by chance.” Watt, 30, remains one of the NFL’s elite defenders, having racked up 108 career sacks and a Defensive Player of the Year award in 2021.
I speak for ALL Steelers fans when we say trade Tj Watt for future picks 🙏🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/DKH0JgkhZk
— Austin (@ColtAustinRich) April 9, 2025
Among the top potential trade suitors, the Philadelphia Eagles are equipped to make a move. With 20 draft picks over the next two years and young stars like Jalen Carter, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean still on rookie deals, GM Howie Roseman has both the capital and cap space to pursue Watt.
A hypothetical package could include the No. 32 pick in 2025, a second-rounder, a 2026 third-rounder, and edge rusher Bryce Huff, who signed a three-year, $51 million deal before last season.
As The Sporting News’ Jarrett Bailey put it, “Trade him while he still has value and get some picks in return... they aren’t winning games of importance.”
“It’s probably in the best interest of everybody that TJ stays in Pittsburgh.”@StevePalazzolo_ explains why the #Steelers should extend TJ Watt. pic.twitter.com/K7LXY2U7cZ
— 93.7 The Fan (@937theFan) April 10, 2025
Two other teams drawing attention are the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Chargers.
The Panthers, still rebuilding their defense around Derrick Brown and newly added Tershawn Wharton, have only Jadeveon Clowney as a reliable edge presence. Trading for Watt would give them an elite finisher to change their defensive identity.
Meanwhile, the Chargers—thin along the defensive line after recent departures—could benefit immensely from Watt’s proven production.
While Pittsburgh owner Art Rooney II has expressed hope of keeping Watt long-term, the growing contract dispute and rising trade interest suggest the Steelers may face a difficult decision sooner than expected.
Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
