
The Steelers’ captain shuts the door on any potential T.J. Watt trade talk
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a number of moves this offseason, as they are building a roster with the “All in” mentality for the 2025 season. They’ve acquired several Pro Bowl and All-Pro veterans, including DK Metcalf, Jalen Ramsey, Jonnu Smith, and Aaron Rodgers to gear up for what will hopefully be a season that goes deep into January.
One player that still hasn’t reported, though, is former Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt. The All-Pro edge rusher is entering the final year of his deal and did not report to mandatory mini-camp as he seeks an extension.
Steelers captain Cam Heyward appeared on The Rich Eisen Show and opened up about the discussions he’s had with Watt.
“We’ve talked, but we don’t really talk about contracts,” Heyward said. “But man, that’s my brother. I want that dude to get paid what he deserves. That dude is one of the most fierce and best players in our league, and he’s respected throughout the league… I’ve had the best time being able to play with him and I hope this year’s not the last time we play together… that’s my running mate.”
Heyward was asked about a potential trade that could send Watt elsewhere, to which he quickly shut down that possibility.
“I’m going up to Omar and I’m telling him ‘That’s not happening,’” Heyward said. “I don’t think it helps our team to trade a guy like that.”
Guest host Seth Rollins jokingly asked Heyward if he has the power to make that decision to “veto” a trade.
“No, I don’t,” Heyward said. “I’m just gonna put my hat in the ring and say ‘this cannot happen.’”
The @steelers stalwart has a very simple message when it comes to his fellow defensive teammate @_TJWatt contract situation:#NFL #HereWeGo @WWERollins pic.twitter.com/qr6rtC6t4F
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) July 16, 2025
While a trade has been discussed by seemingly everyone in the media, most Steelers fans will tell you they’ve given it zero thought because there’s almost a zero percent chance it happens. Watt will all but certainly get an extension from the Steelers and retire in Pittsburgh.