T.J. Watt sent shockwaves through Pittsburgh Steelers nation after posting a cryptic peace sign on Instagram. The timing of the post, paired with growing contract speculation, left fans and analysts wondering what it really meant. Now, a Steelers insider has shed light on the situation — and it may signal deeper issues between Watt and the organization.
What Sparked T.J. Watt’s Viral Post?
According to 93.7 The Fan’s Andrew Fillipponi, Watt’s Instagram message was a reaction to a media report suggesting the Steelers are interested in extending his contract — but at a figure lower than Myles Garrett’s $160 million deal. “Watt heard about a media report that the Steelers want to re-sign him. But that it would be less than Myles Garrett. It didn’t sit well with him,” Fillipponi tweeted.
This insight explains Watt’s subtle message, hinting at his dissatisfaction with the Steelers’ approach as he enters the final year of his current four-year, $112 million extension signed in 2021.
Since being drafted in 2017, Watt has been the engine of Pittsburgh’s defense. With 131 career sacks and multiple All-Pro and Pro Bowl nods, his production and consistency are undeniable. He won Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 and tied the NFL single-season sack record that same year.
What’s Next for Watt’s Contract?
The Steelers are now at a crossroads. They must decide whether to pay top dollar for their franchise defender or prioritize cap flexibility for the future. Watt’s cryptic peace sign post may have been subtle, but it sent a clear message: he’s not willing to be undervalued.
Failing to meet Watt’s expectations could spark tension, create distractions, or even lead to the possibility of a holdout. On the other hand, overcommitting financially could restrict Pittsburgh’s ability to strengthen other parts of the roster. It’s a delicate balancing act for the front office, with high stakes on both sides.
Last season, Pittsburgh’s defense finished 12th (78.7 grade), according to PFSN’s Defense+ metric, falling short of the dominant units the organization has previously put out.
“The Pittsburgh Steelers tumbled out of the top 10 after slumping against superior competition during their four-game losing streak in the regular season. From Week 15 through the Wild Card round, Pittsburgh ranked 30th in both pass defense success rate and EPA per dropback.”
Now, the ball is in the Steelers’ court. If they want to avoid offseason drama and maintain momentum heading into training camp, they’ll need to act swiftly and present a deal that reflects Watt’s elite production and leadership. With the season approaching, any delay could put unnecessary strain on both the organization and its locker room.