The standoff between the Pittsburgh Steelers and TJ Watt continues as the former Wisconsin star seeks a new contract. The two sides have had moments of back-and-forth in the negotiations, but according to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, right now, it's at a standstill with "no progress on a long-term deal." Watt has now decided to skip the mandatory minicamp without a new deal.
The #Steelers All-Pro edge TJ Watt, seeking a new deal, is not in attendance at mandatory minicamp, per me and @MikeGarafolo. No progress on a long-term deal. pic.twitter.com/YhF1wEtwQW
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 10, 2025
TJ Watt and the Steelers are making 'no progress' on a new contract
The last jockeying was that the Steelers reportedly gave him a "significant offer" but that TJ Watt didn't think it was that impressive. It's been quiet since then, and Watt continues to hold out. If the two sides continue to wait each other out, this may last until August.
NFL teams have all started their mandatory minicamps, during which players report back to the facility and begin offseason preparation. Watt isn't the only star sitting out with the hopes of a new contract, but he's currently the only Former Badger who is.
The official start date for the Pittsburgh Steelers is September 9 against the New York Jets on the road. The goal for all sides is that something is worked out by then. Watt continues to be one of the best pass rushers in the NFL. While his stats were a bit down last season due to picking up more double-teams, he's a force to be reckoned with and someone who deserves a top deal.
The hard part is that the Steelers see him as an aging star, not a continually rising star, and that's where some of the stand-off is occurring. We will see if a deal gets done before the start of the season.