Following a tremendous 2016 season at Wisconsin, T.J. Watt has become one of the best outside linebacker’s in the NFL. He’s now trying to get paid like one.
The 2020 All-Pro selection has had a busy offseason battling for a new contract extension, and despite not yet having signed one he returned to practice this week.
No people have been bigger advocates for the former Badger than his own teammates, who have constantly backed him up in his quest for a new deal. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger was as clear as it gets regarding a new deal for Pittsburgh’s best defensive player:
Ben Roethlisberger incredibly firm on his team’s negotiations with Watt: “TJ Watt should get whatever the heck he wants. He’s one of the best players in the NFL, not just defensively.
Says he took less money so the team could do things like sign Watt.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 8, 2021
His teammates on defense had similar sentiments:
Cam Heyward: “We all feel like TJ should be paid. … he’s a game-changer. My conversations to him are, he should be paid.” pic.twitter.com/NH4wtNiJi0
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) September 9, 2021
Watt is expected to play in Pittsburgh’s season opener this Sunday against Buffalo, whether or not he signs a new deal in time.