Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt is best known for terrorizing opposing quarterbacks. He is currently the co-leader of the NFL single-season sack record with 22.5; however, he recently displayed his softer side to the world in a touching message to his wife.
Steelers T.J. Watt Hits Pause on Contract Drama to Mark Milestone With Wife Dani
Watt, who has been embroiled in contract negotiations with the Steelers this offseason, took a break from his usual insane offseason workout program to celebrate with his wife, Dani Watt.
The Watts recently celebrated their third anniversary, and T.J. shared a love-filled Instagram post on his account to mark the occasion.
“Spontaneous trip to celebrate 3 years of marriage with my best friend and rock. You are a natural mother and an amazing wife. 9 years ago we went on our first date and I have fallen for you harder each day since. I love you!” said Watt on Instagram.
T.J. met Dani Rhodes when they were both student athletes at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. They both went on to become professional athletes after college; the Steelers drafted T.J. in the first round, and Dani played women’s soccer.
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The two were engaged in 2021 and married in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, in 2022. They recently celebrated the birth of their first child, a daughter named Blakely, in March of 2025.
Steelers’ Super Bowl Hopes May Hinge on Locking Down Watt Long-Term
Watt has been with the Steelers since 2017 and has become one of the best players in the league. Now entering his ninth season in the league, he was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year for 2021 and has been in contention, and even robbed of the award, in other seasons.
A seven-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro, Watt is a force to be reckoned with on the field. Now, he wants to be paid like one, and it seems highly likely the Steelers will make him the highest-paid non-quarterback before it is all said and done.
Ever since Watt held out of mandatory mini-camp while he negotiates with the team over his next contract extension, trade rumors have swirled. While some national media members have suggested that Watt is “unhappy” and indicated that the two are far apart, most local media outlets are aware that the Steelers will not risk losing Watt to another team.
The Steelers have made a series of bold moves this offseason, surprising many with their actions. That includes the signing of Aaron Rodgers and massive trades for DK Metcalf, Jonnu Smith, and Jalen Ramsey. This has many thinking that the team is hoping for a Super Bowl run despite the improbable odds.
One thing is certain: that championship run will be much harder without Watt.
