JJ Watt Has Strong Reaction to Brother TJ Watt’s Historic Contract
July 19, 2025
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Many believe Pittsburgh Steelers edge-rusher T.J. Watt to be the top pass-rusher in the NFL.
So when the Steelers signed Watt to a three-year, $123 million contract extension, which makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL on a per-year basis ($41 million), the consensus was the monster deal well-deserved.
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When it comes to rushing the passer, the only other player who appears to be a threat to Watt’s stronghold on the No. 1 position is Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, who signed a four-year, $160 million contract ($40 million per season) earlier this offseason.
Since 2017, Watt leads the NFL in sacks (108), QB hits (225), tackles for loss (126), and forced fumbles (33), per NFL media.
Garrett is second in sacks (102.5) and the only other player with 100 or more sacks over that same span. Watt’s 33 forced fumbles are nine more than the next-closest player Khalil Mack (24).
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Former Pittsburgh Steelers player Derek Watt, T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Houston Texans player J.J. Watt look on prior to a game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Houston Texans at NRG… Former Pittsburgh Steelers player Derek Watt, T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Houston Texans player J.J. Watt look on prior to a game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on October 01, 2023 in Houston, Texas.
Carmen Mandato/Getty Images
Congratulations and well-wishes poured in on Thursday after news of Watt’s new deal broke, but one person’s reaction stuck out above all the others — T.J.’s brother J.J.
J.J.’s initial reaction was that of elation.
“Earned. Deserved. Incredible,” J.J. posted on X moments after seeing the news.
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But then CBS Sports shared a graphic on social media comparing J.J.’s total career earnings of $129.7 million side-by-side to T.J.’s new $123 million contract, which prompted the elder Watt brother to bust out the snark.
“I swear, if this guy even lets me begin to reach for my wallet at dinner…” J.J. jokingly wrote.
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For comparison, the biggest contract J.J. ever signed was a six-year, $100 million deal with the Texans back in 2014, according to Spotrac.
To date, T.J. has earned $110.9 million over the course of his eight-year NFL career. If he plays out the entirety of his new deal with the Steelers, he’ll have earned a massive $254.95 million over the course of his career, topping his brother by a cool $125 million.
For more Pittsburgh Steelers and NFL news, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
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