Free-agent fullback Derek Watt is reportedly expected to sign a three-year, $9.75 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Watt will now be teaming up with his younger brother, All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt. The deal will also make Watt one of the highest-paid fullbacks in the NFL.
The Steelers are expected to sign Derek Watt to a 3-year, $9.75 million when the league year opens tomorrow. What does it mean that the team dedicated so much money to a fullback and special teamer? https://t.co/tXTNhNLNju pic.twitter.com/lqQyOucVyN
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) March 18, 2020
Following a standout career at the University of Wisconsin, Derek Watt was selected in the sixth round of the 2016 draft. He has played his entire four-year NFL career with the Los Angeles Chargers until hitting free agency.
Article Continues BelowWatt has appeared in 64 games in his four-year career and has done a phenomenal job blocking for Melvin Gordon III on the Chargers. He has recorded 19 career rushing attempts for 49 yards and one touchdown. This past season, the 27-year-old carried the ball seven times, caught three passes, and recorded 16 tackles on special teams.
Recently, former Steeler Tyler Matakevich signed a two-year, $9 million deal with the Buffalo Bills. Although Watt mainly plays fullback, he'll most likely replace Matakevich on the special teams units. Despite lacking accolades to his resume, Derek has done a terrific job on the special teams units.
With the new addition of Watt, Roosevelt Nix’s tenure with the Steelers will most likely be coming to an end this offseason. The five-year veteran struggled with injuries last campaign and was limited to only three games. Nix is set to earn $2.95 million in base salary in 2020 and 2021. Nevertheless, Watt will also most likely replace Nix at the fullback position.
The deal doesn't become official until free agency begins at 4 p.m. EST Wednesday.