The T.J. Watt contract stalls continue with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has made his voice heard: Pay the man. Big Ben spoke on the Watt situation during Wednesday's media day and sent a stern message to the Steelers about their best pass rusher. Via ESPN's Brooke Pryor:
Article Continues Below“I think T.J. should get whatever the heck he wants. He's arguably the best football player in the game right now, not just on defense in general,” the Steelers veteran said. “I've been through a few negotiations here with contracts. One of the reasons I took less money was for guys like him to get paid, and he needs to get paid. He deserves every penny he wants and asks for. T.J. Watt is that guy, that should get whatever he wants.”
Watt is arguably one of the best defensive players in the league and certainly deserves a payday. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said earlier this week he expects Watt to play this Sunday against the Bills regardless, but it's crystal clear that he's in for a payday. Watt is heading into the final season of his rookie deal, which will pay him $10 million in 2021. He was also an All-Pro in back-to-back seasons.
The Steelers need to get this done ASAP.