The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for the 2024-25 season. However, TJ Watt turned heads on Thursday after making some admissions about his eventual retirement plans.
When asked about retirement, Watt referenced his brother, JJ, and how he “didn’t want to play super long.” The Steelers star himself hinted at the idea of not playing a long career either, according to Mark Kaboly of The Athletic. But overall, TJ Watt isn't sure exactly when he plans to retire.
“I don't know if I want to play forever, but who knows? It is too hard to say. JJ always said he didn't want to play super long, then things happened and he ended up playing longer. I won't know until that moment comes. I feel great right now, so I am kind of just living in the moment. I don't have forever to play. I have always approached the game as right now, and I have never taken it for granted, and that hasn't changed at all.”
TJ Watt signed a four-year $112 million contract with the Steelers back in 2021. He's due to hit free agency in the 2026 offseason. He'll be turning 30 years old midway through the season this year. Based on these comments there's a chance Watt calls it a career at the end of this contract. But nothing is set in stone just yet.
Watt has been a superstar for the Steelers since they selected him in the 2017 NFL Draft. He's been an absolute monster over the years, accumulating 401 total tackles (107 for a loss), 96.5 sacks, 27 forced fumbles, 10 fumble recoveries, seven interceptions, and one defensive touchdown. TJ Watt won the Defensive Player of the Year award for his efforts in the 2021 season.
Steelers 2024-25 season outlook
The Steelers made a quarterback change earlier this offseason after trading Kenny Pickett to the Philadelphia Eagles. Pittsburgh replaced him with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, giving the franchise a short and potential long-term answer at the position.
Additionally, the Steelers made a change as offensive coordinator after hiring former Atlanta Falcons head coach, Arthur Smith. Although his tenure as a head coach didn't pan out, he's proven to be a solid play-caller as an OC.
We should expect the Steelers to run the ball often while using short pass plays to take advantage of opposing defenses. That's certainly the kind of offense Russell Wilson can. Back that up with a solid defense and Pittsburgh could be in the mix for a playoff spot late in the season. At the very least, Mike Tomlin probably won't allow the team to record a losing record.
With that said, the Steelers don't have a perfect roster but fans should be excited about next season. The subtle changes the front office made should make the team competitive. But with the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, and Cincinnati Bengals all looking like playoff contenders themselves, it'll be a tough go for Pittsburgh.
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