T.J. Watt signs a record $123M deal with the Steelers! See how his Aug. 1 return impacts the QB duel between Aaron Rodgers & Will Howard in the 2024 season.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Under the bright lights of Latrobe Memorial Stadium, the Pittsburgh Steelers put on a show for thousands of fans, but the real electricity came from the man of the hour: T.J. Watt. Fresh off signing a historic contract extension that once again makes him the highest-paid defender in the league, Watt's presence at the annual 'Friday Night Lights' practice signaled a major victory for the franchise. His return provided the perfect backdrop for a night of intense drills, emerging rookies, and the continuing quarterback duel between veteran Aaron Rodgers and rookie Will Howard.
T.J. Watt is back in the fold after signing a three-year, $123 million extension, including a staggering $108 million guaranteed.
The biggest news of the day, and perhaps the entire offseason, was the finalization of T.J. Watt's new contract. The three-year, $123 million deal, with $108 million guaranteed, ensures the defensive cornerstone will remain in black and gold for the foreseeable future. By making him the highest-paid non-quarterback for a second time, the Steelers sent a clear message about their commitment to an elite, game-wrecking defense. Watt's official report to camp was met with a hero's welcome, and his presence immediately elevates the entire defensive unit.
The festive atmosphere of 'Friday Night Lights' provided the perfect stage for the ongoing quarterback evaluation. Both Aaron Rodgers and Will Howard took snaps, with Rodgers connecting on the night's most explosive play—a short pass to rookie running back Kaleb Johnson, who turned on the jets for a 20-30 yard catch-and-run. Johnson is quickly becoming a camp darling. Meanwhile, Kenneth Gainwell continued to be a primary target out of the backfield, logging more receptions than carries through the first week. The offense is clearly exploring its new weapons, with Rodgers' veteran savvy on full display.
While the offense flashed, the front office was busy shoring up the defense. Following the trade of Minkah Fitzpatrick, the team signed veteran safety Chuck Clark, a former Raven and Jet. The 30-year-old, who is returning from a 2023 ACL tear, brings valuable starting experience and will compete for snaps behind DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill. The move addresses a critical depth need. The rest of the secondary has also been active, with Patrick Queen, Brandin Echols, and Jalen Ramsey all recording interceptions in early camp practices, signaling a ball-hawking mentality for 2025.
It wasn't all positive news, as a few key offensive players were sidelined. Tight end Jonnu Smith was limited for a second straight day and left practice early, while versatile weapon Cordarrelle Patterson did not participate at all. Head Coach Mike Tomlin labeled both as 'day-to-day' with minor issues. In a related roster move, the team also released an unnamed rookie wide receiver to make room as camp battles intensify.
With T.J. Watt secured, a new veteran in the secondary, and young players making noise, the energy from 'Friday Night Lights' sets a powerful tone. The quarterback competition will remain the central focus, but the pieces are clearly being moved into place. As camp continues, the Steelers are forging an identity that feels both familiar in its toughness and exciting in its new potential. The first preseason game can't come soon enough.
