Examining the Pros & Cons of a TJ Watt Trade
p/c: Charles LeClaire
Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker TJ Watt completed his eighth season as a member of the organization.
Despite what some would consider a down year - at least by his standards - Watt recorded 11.5 sacks, while finishing fourth for Defensive Player of the Year.
The Steelers all-time sack leader will be entering the final year of his current deal. He’s set to make a $21 million dollar base salary in 2025, along with a cap hit of $30.4 million.
On March 9th, the Cleveland Browns locked up Myles Garrett to a four-year extension worth $160 million - of which $123.5 million is guaranteed. Watt will no doubt view Garrett’s new deal as a barometer, to what he could receive.
There also has been speculation about the Steelers perhaps moving their defensive cornerstone this offseason.
So what would be the pros & cons, if a Watt trade were to materialize?
Pros: Given that Watt still plays the OLB position at an elite level, Pittsburgh should get back a solid, package. Even with just one year of control, a first round pick could be possible, especially if the team that acquires Watt feels they can sign him long-term.
The Steelers have plenty of cap space this offseason, as evidence by the signing of newly obtained WR DK Metcalf. Not re-signing Watt would really be a cost savings heading into next year.
Cons: On the flip side, trading away Watt would obviously create a massive hole on defense. As good as Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig are, neither are at the level of Watt. Although to be fair, how many can be?
Watt still presents a Top 3 edge rusher in the league - Top 5 at least, so his presence would be a massive loss, on the defensive side.
Outside of the 2022 season, Watt has been a relatively, healthy player during his NFL career. He’s found himself a finalist for DPOY in four of the last five years.
While Watt is 30, he hasn’t shown signs of slowing down, which could lead to the Steelers feeling comfortable about offering him another extension. It’s certainly understandable to think why they shouldn’t, given that Watt is on the other side of 30, however, he still remains one of the best at his position, and it would be quite difficult to replace his type of production. Keeping Watt in the fold would be the right move, in my opinion. As long as the Steelers can find ways to significantly improve the offense, then it won’t take a toll on Watt as much, or the defense in general.