NFL insider floats shocking Steelers trade news involving T.J. Watt
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler hinted that the Pittsburgh Steelers could entertain trading T.J. Watt if they sign Nick Herbig to a long-term extension.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have some major decisions to make this offseason, one of which is attempting to sign Nick Herbig to a contract extension before he hits free agency in 2027. But one NFL insider believes doing so could spell the beginning of the end for T. J.
Watt in Pittsburgh. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, if Pittsburgh re-signs Herbig to a long-term extension, Watt could become a trade candidate. "To the point above: If the Steelers end up signing Herbig long term, having three large contracts allocated to one position is a tough proposition," Fowler wrote.
"Watt, for all his greatness, turns 32 in October and has guaranteed salaries of $32 million in both 2026 and 2027. Watt is a legacy player, something Pittsburgh values more than most. But some teams could see Pittsburgh at least considering moving on from him.
" While it's true that having Watt, Herbig, and Highsmith all signed to major contracts isn't ideal, it's hard to imagine the Steelers moving on from a fan-favorite player like Watt. Unless a team gives them an offer they can't refuse, however, which also seems unlikely given his ludicrous contract he signed last offseason. For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.