Steelers HC Mike Tomlin Offers Major Update on TJ Watt Minicamp Holdout
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The Pittsburgh Steelers have wrapped up their minicamp, but they did so without the presence of star pass rusher T.J. Watt. Watt held out of minicamp, as he waits for a well-deserved contract extension.
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Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has spoken many times about the holdout, but now that the team's minicamp has wrapped up, he has offered a major update on the situation.
#Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, on the TJ Watt situation now that minicamp has ended: 'I'm optimistic we're going to get things done because we got two sides that want to get things done. When that's going to occur… I do not know.' — Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 12, 2025
Tomlin spoke to reporters, which was shared by NFL insider Ian Rapoport. According to Tomlin:
"I'm optimistic we're going to get things done because we got two sides that want to get things done. When that's going to occur... I do not know."
Tomlin revealed that not only does he believe that a new extension is going to happen, but that both sides are eager to get the extension done. The only worrisome aspect of his update is timing.
40. T.J. Watt, Linebacker, Pittsburgh Steelers.
40. T.J. Watt, Linebacker, Pittsburgh Steelers.More news: Missouri Approves Millions to Keep Chiefs From Relocating
Watt has already missed minicamp, and it is believed that he would also hold out of training camp until he gets his new deal.
What is T.J. Watt's current contract?
Watt famously held out all summer in 2021, as he waited for a new deal. That deal would come in the form of a four-year, $112 million extension, which made him the highest-paid pass rusher at the time.
As the years passed, many more quarterback terrorizers would get better contracts, until the Cleveland Browns gave Myles Garrett a monster market-resetting deal.
Garrett was awarded a four-year, $160 million extension, giving him an annual figure of $40 million.
What are T.J. Watt's Stats?
Watt is arguably a better defender than Garrett, and has edged him in total sacks over the last five seasons. Garrett has secured 72 sacks since the 2020 season, while Watt has secured 73.5.
Considering both pass rushers are the proverbial cream of the crop in their respective positions, the Steelers are likely going to have to offer Watt a similar deal as Garrett received.
Watt is one of the most important players the Steelers have on the defense and the team as a whole. He has also been in this situation before, so the organization knows the lengths he will go to to ensure he gets paid what he believes that he deserves.
The Steelers also need to be quick about this extension; otherwise, they will have to engage in training camp without their superstar.
More NFL:
Recently Released Defensive Star Signs One-Year Deal With Raiders
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