TJ Watt Ready to Make Huge Changes vs Jets After Steelers LB Confirmed Retirement Plans

In July 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers doubled down on their defensive identity, extending TJ Watt to a massive three-year, $123 million deal. The contract made him the NFL’s highest-paid non-quarterback, a statement that Pittsburgh intends to keep its franchise cornerstone in black and gold for the foreseeable future. For the Steelers, Watt isn’t just a pass rusher; he is the heartbeat of a defense that has carried this franchise’s tradition of toughness into a new era.

The accolades speak for themselves. Seven Pro Bowl selections, four first-team All-Pro nods, a Defensive Player of the Year award, and 108 career sacks already put him in the conversation as one of the greatest defenders in Steelers history. Yet Watt, at 30, refuses to stand still.

Coming off an 11.5-sack campaign, TJ Watt has revealed plans to move around the formation more often. Instead of being locked on one side of the line, the All-Pro edge rusher expects to line up left, right, and even inside, creating headaches for opposing offenses. “This year, it’s about moving around more… to keep offenses off balance,” Watt told SportsLine. “I’m all in for whatever helps us win.”

Moving Target: T.J. Watt Is ‘All In’ On Tweaking His Game If It Helps Steelers Win #Steelers #NFL #Pittsburgh https://t.co/1DRrQ24PBB

— Steelers Depot 7⃣ (@Steelersdepot) September 6, 2025

That kind of versatility could be exactly what the Steelers need to make the jump from solid playoff contender to legitimate Super Bowl threat. Pittsburgh has been known for stout defense for decades, but in an AFC loaded with high-powered offenses and elite quarterbacks, unpredictability might be the best weapon. Watt’s ability to dictate blocking schemes, collapse pockets, and pressure from unexpected spots could tilt the balance in close games.

Meanwhile, retirement rumors have quietly emerged around Watt. Now 30 and a new dad, he admitted this summer that thoughts of hanging it up, and even playing recreational hockey in a local brewery league, crossed his mind. But for now, his focus is squarely on delivering for Pittsburgh and adding to a legacy that already cements him as one of the NFL’s most feared defenders.

The Steelers believe Watt’s tweaks will pay dividends. If his expanded role clicks, it could unlock another Defensive Player of the Year campaign, and maybe, just maybe, lead Pittsburgh back to championship glory.

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