T.J. Watt Absent from Steelers Mandatory Minicamp
On Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers began their mandatory minicamp, but star linebacker T.J. Watt was notably absent. While Aaron Rodgers prepares to take the practice field, Watt's focus appears to be on securing a new contract as he enters the final year of his current deal.
Watt, a seven-time Pro Bowler and the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, signed a lucrative four-year extension in September 2021 worth $112 million, making him the highest-paid defender at that time. However, since then, several players have surpassed that figure, including Cleveland's Myles Garrett, whose recent contract reportedly earns him $40 million annually, making him the top non-quarterback earner in the league.
This decision to skip minicamp marks a shift from Watt's previous strategy in 2021 when he opted for a "hold in" during both minicamp and training camp before finalizing his contract just before the regular season commenced. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin commented on Watt's absence, stating, "We expect him back at some point. We don't get caught up (in that)... He's going to be in good shape (whenever he arrives)."
Since signing his extension, Watt has tied an NFL record with 22 1/2 sacks in 2021 and led the league again in 2023, although his total dropped to 11 1/2 last season—his lowest in a year without significant injury since his rookie season in 2017. Austin sees this absence as an opportunity for younger players like third-year linebacker Nick Herbig and rookie Jack Sawyer to step up.
However, neither player possesses Watt's proven track record. As he approaches his 31st birthday in October, Watt remains a crucial component of a defense that has kept the Steelers competitive amid ongoing changes at quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger's retirement in January 2022.
Meanwhile, Rodgers is set to make his presence felt after signing a one-year deal last week. He was seen at the team facility on Tuesday and is anticipated to participate in afternoon practice.
