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Steelers' T.J. Watt record deal is already inspiring other edge rushers

Steelers' T.J. Watt record deal is already inspiring other edge rushers

USA Today5 days ago
T.J. Watt is already inspiring the NFL's next wave of elite edge rushers with his massive three-year, $123 million contract extension — just ask Chargers' Tuli Tuipulotu.
On Day 2 of Chargers training camp, Tuipulotu addressed Watt's record-setting deal during media availability — claiming it as a source of inspiration to start sacking the quarterback.
'We all seen T.J. Watt's deal," Tuipulotu said, via ESPN's Kris Rim. "So, man, we gotta get to the quarterback.'
Tuipulotu was drafted by the Chargers with the 54th overall pick in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. He wasted little time impressing the NFL world after entering the league — he earned a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team in his debut season and produced 8.5 sacks in just nine starts in Year 2.
Watt's new average salary of $41 million slots him in as the highest-paid non-QB in the NFL — and clearly, Tuipulotu is ready to stack two more dominant seasons to potentially take the reins from the Steelers superstar defender.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.
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