TJ Watt’s $123 million extension deal with Steelers sets NFL record for highest-paid defender

TJ Watt has always envisioned being a 'one-helmet guy', and on Thursday, he took a major step toward making that dream a reality. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ star outside linebacker reportedly agreed to a new three-year extension worth $123 million, making him the highest-paid defender in NFL history in terms of average annual value. Watt will reportedly get $108 million fully guaranteed when he signs.

According to ESPN, the $41 million per year deal surpasses the previous record set by Browns pass rusher Myles Garrett earlier this year.

Watt, who was entering the final year of his previous extension, celebrated the news with a rare Instagram post of himself flexing in his No. 90 jersey and another photo alongside rising linebacker Nick Herbig.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TJ Watt (@tjwatt90)

Watt, who turns 31 in October, has long believed he is the best edge rusher in the NFL and now has the salary to match that belief - for the second time in four years.

While Watt’s total contract value is lower than Garrett’s $204 million deal, the Steelers clearly recognized Watt’s consistent dominance. A four-time All-Pro, seven-time Pro Bowler, and the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Watt has racked up 108 sacks in 121 regular-season games. He also holds a share of the single-season sack record (22.5 in 2021).

Watt’s extension comes at a pivotal time for the Steelers, who recently added quarterback Aaron Rodgers and defensive back Jalen Ramsey in a bold bid to return to playoff relevance. Despite Watt’s individual brilliance, the Steelers are 0-4 in the postseason with him in the lineup.

The franchise’s ability to extend Watt now is aided by the lack of a long-term quarterback deal, giving them financial breathing room before potentially targeting a new franchise QB in the 2026 NFL Draft - which will take place in Pittsburgh. Watt now looks to extend his legacy and finally deliver postseason success in the Steel City.