T.J. Watt’s contract standoff with the Pittsburgh Steelers has sparked trade rumors, but does a move to the New England Patriots seem like a fantasy?
The star edge rusher wants to be the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback, demanding over $40.25 million annually. Can the Patriots pull off this blockbuster, or is it just a pipe dream?
The Patriots boast $61 million in salary cap space, per Spotrac, enough to absorb Watt’s hefty price tag.
Yet, a proposed trade, Jabrill Peppers, a 2026 second-round pick, and a 2027 third-rounder, lacks the first-round pick Pittsburgh would likely demand.
Pittsburgh’s playoff aspirations make trading Watt illogical. The Steelers, bolstered by acquisitions like Jalen Ramsey and Aaron Rodgers, are all-in for 2025.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted, “There’s not a lot of traction in the Steelers’ organization to trade Watt” ESPN.com. But will they pay him what he wants?
New England, rebuilding after consecutive four-win seasons, isn’t one star away from contention.
Watt, turning 31 in October, offers no long-term guarantee, especially in a contract year.
The Patriots need foundational pieces, not an overly priced rental.
Watt’s elite production, 15 sacks in 2024, makes him tempting, but his age raises red flags.
NFL Analysis Network warns that edge rushers often decline post-30, and New England risks overpaying for diminishing returns. Pittsburgh’s focus remains on extending him.
