T.J. Watt Turns Down $200 Million Offers from Eagles and Ravens to Stay a Steeler for Life – Here’s Why!
Pittsburgh, PA – In a jaw-dropping move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, star pass rusher T.J. Watt has made a bold statement about his loyalty, turning down offers worth an astounding $200 million from both the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens. The decision has stunned fans and analysts alike, as many expected Watt to break records in the 2025 free-agent market with a monumental payday. But the heart and soul of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense has a different vision for his future.
In an exclusive interview, Watt shared his unwavering commitment to the Steelers and explained why he chose to remain in Pittsburgh for the long haul. “I’m a Steeler for life,” Watt declared, setting the tone for what will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about decisions of the year. The 28-year-old linebacker, widely regarded as one of the most dominant pass rushers in NFL history, has been the backbone of the Steelers’ defense since his arrival. His relentless energy, leadership, and passion for the game have made him a living legend in Pittsburgh.
The decision comes as a major surprise, considering the massive financial offers Watt turned down. Both the Eagles and Ravens, desperate to add a game-changing pass rusher to their defenses, offered Watt contracts that would have paid him $200 million over four years. This would have made Watt one of the highest-paid defensive players in NFL history, securing his financial future for multiple generations. Yet, despite the lure of the massive payday, Watt chose loyalty over money.
“I’ve been here since day one. This city, this team, this fanbase—they’ve supported me through everything,” Watt explained. “It’s not just about football. It’s about building something special here, something bigger than myself. I want to bring a Super Bowl back to Pittsburgh. That’s my mission, my legacy. The money, the fame—it’s all secondary. This is where I belong.”
Fans in Pittsburgh are celebrating Watt’s decision, and the Steelers organization is reportedly “ecstatic” to have their star pass rusher commit to the team for the long term. Steelers owner, Art Rooney II, expressed his excitement, saying, “T.J.’s loyalty to the Steelers is unmatched. We are thrilled to have him with us for the future. His commitment to excellence and his leadership on and off the field represent everything this organization stands for.”
Watt’s decision could change the landscape of the NFL, as other star players are left to wonder if financial success is truly the only way to greatness. For now, Watt is focused on one thing: winning with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The NFL world is buzzing, and one thing is clear: T.J. Watt is carving his own path—and it’s leading straight through Pittsburgh.
Watt’s Legacy in Pittsburgh
As he enters the 2025 season with a contract that will likely see him finish his career with the Steelers, Watt’s place in Pittsburgh’s football lore is already secure. Since being drafted in 2017, he has become one of the most feared and respected pass rushers in the league. His ability to dominate on defense, along with his leadership both on and off the field, has made him an iconic figure in the Steel City.
Turning down the monumental $200 million offers only strengthens his bond with the team and solidifies his position as a true franchise player. Watt’s loyalty is expected to be the cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense as they continue to chase their Super Bowl aspirations.
With the Steelers looking to remain contenders in the AFC, Watt’s leadership and commitment could be the key to their future success. His dedication to Pittsburgh will be felt for years to come.
The question remains: Will T.J. Watt’s decision to reject $200 million redefine what it means to be a franchise player in today’s NFL? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: his unwavering loyalty to the Steelers will leave an indelible mark on both the franchise and the league.
Rival coach says he's 'forever indebted' to Commanders' Dan Quinn
MADRID – There are relationships in the NFL and then there are bonds. When it comes to Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins head coaches Dan Quinn and Mike McDaniel, the two are forever bonded in battle but also in brotherhood.
That word, ‘brotherhood,’ has been uttered a lot around the Commanders since Quinn arrived, and on occasion, he’s had the opportunity to prove he’s as much a part of it as he is the leader of it.
"Dan Quinn holds a special place in my heart, in my career,” McDaniel said of the Washington coach. “He was there, ground zero, when I became sober and supported me and believed in me and gave me the opportunity to continue what I love to do. For that, I'll be forever indebted to him.
“It speaks to the type of man he is and the type of leader he is that I know. He touches every player he coaches from a true, authentic standpoint, and I think the Commanders are very fortunate to have him."
Aug 17, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel and Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn shake hands after a preseason game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images / Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
McDaniel has been very public about his alcohol abuse issues of the past and how his recovery has helped him become one of just 32 head coaches in the NFL. Quinn being a central member of that recovery is no surprise given his reputation for caring about the people around him before he cares about their job title.
"And in that space, all I want to do is help and give support and then the real work begins for the person who's in that spot. And that's exactly what Mike did to say, this is what I'm going to work on and how I'm going to go do it. …And I think that takes a lot of guts to do that. And that's one of the reasons I'm real proud of him.”
The respect and love on both sides of this weekend’s matchup are clear, and it’s special. So much so that we’ve actually told this story before, the last time the Commanders and Dolphins faced off, last preseason, but it is one each man speaks about like it's the first time, every time, and a bond worth writing about each time as well.
Usually, asking about old connections in NFL life after that first meeting leads to muted comments, like when Quinn faced the Atlanta Falcons this year, last year, and even before that. Or when he went up against Pete Carroll, whom he’s faced before since the two reached the pinnacle of the game as Super Bowl champions with the Seattle Seahawks.
Talking about McDaniel, however, there’s no watering down of what that relationship means to either man, but it isn’t just personal.
Nov 9, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images / Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
“I've known Mike to be an excellent coach,” Quinn also said. “He can process things so quickly, it's no surprise to see that his offense can throw the ball quickest. They can have the fastest motions. That's Mike to a T, where he can just think so quickly on it. …he's one of my favorite coaches.”
The brotherhood is still strong between Quinn and McDaniel, but in Week 11, we’ll see the sibling rivalry more than the brotherly love as each man will look to get the upper hand, the Commanders coach clarifies.
But no matter which side wins and what the winning score is, don’t expect any icy exchanges afterwards.
