T.J. Watt trade speculation heats up despite recent down season. [Image Source: THESPUN]
Despite recent chatter about a potential move, the Pittsburgh Steelers have no immediate intention to trade T.J. Watt, even after what many consider a down season. This stance comes as the team undergoes a coaching transition and faces renewed questions about Watt’s future. The 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year remains a key asset for the Steelers, according to team insiders and beat writer Mark Kaboly, who stresses that trading him now would be unwise for several reasons.
Analyst Emphasizes Steelers’ Confidence in Watt Post-Contract Extension
Mark Kaboly, speaking on 93.7 The Fan, highlighted the Steelers’ ongoing commitment to Watt, stating,
“I think it’s gonna be much the same.”
He reminded listeners that the team recently locked Watt into a lucrative contract extension and emphasized,
“They’re not gonna try to get rid of him. I don’t think even if they tried to get rid of him that they would get his market value back for him. I think they still have high belief in him. Maybe he’s lost half a step, but I think he still had half a step to lose.”
2025 Season Highlights Show Watt’s Continued Impact Despite Setbacks
During the 14 games he played in 2025, Watt accumulated notable statistics: 55 tackles with 10 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 2 interceptions, 8 passes defensed, and 3 forced fumbles. Although he was selected for the Pro Bowl, Watt did not make the All-Pro team, breaking his consistent streak since 2019 aside from an injury-affected 2022 season. Meanwhile, fellow edge rusher Alex Highsmith has also been the subject of trade discussions, raising questions about the team’s broader defensive strategy.
Highsmith and Herbig’s Roles Complicate Trade Decisions
Kaboly expressed a firm stance against trading Highsmith, stating,
Image of: T.J. Watt
“Man, Highsmith was probably their defensive MVP last year.”
With linebacker Nick Herbig approaching a contract year, Kaboly notes the difficulty of making changes:
“You don’t just jettison Alex Highsmith without having Herbig locked up.”
Assessing Jack Sawyer’s Potential as a Pass Rusher for the Steelers
The Steelers also invested in Jack Sawyer, a young pass rusher, last season. Sawyer showed promise toward the end of the year during Watt’s absence due to a partially collapsed lung. Still, the team appears cautious about relying heavily on Sawyer’s future impact, preferring to see more consistent production from him before considering moves that would involve major roster changes. This perspective contrasts with columnist Ray Fittipaldo’s expectation that the Steelers might pursue trade options.
Watt’s Career Achievements Remain Impressive Despite Age and Injuries
Watt’s career totals from 2018 through 2023 include 89.5 sacks, an impressive figure that encompasses a limited 5.5-sack season in 2022 because of injury. He boasts three seasons with 15 or more sacks and has led the entire NFL in sacks a record three times. His 2021 performance tied the NFL’s single-season sack record, matching Michael Strahan’s mark—though Browns’ pass rusher Myles Garrett narrowly surpassed this record this season.
Future Outlook: Watt’s Role Under New Defensive Coordinator Patrick Graham
Approaching his 32nd birthday in October, Watt’s stage of career is in question, with debates over whether he remains at his peak. Given the arrival of new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, known for working with underperforming rosters, the Steelers appear unlikely to trade Watt. The coaching staff values his presence, viewing it as less problematic than managing an expensive former Defensive Player of the Year who still brings high-level talent and leadership.
