Pittsburgh, PA – In a jaw-dropping move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, star pass rusher T.J. Watt has made a bold statement about his loyalty, turning down offers worth an astounding $200 million from both the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens. The decision has stunned fans and analysts alike, as many expected Watt to break records in the 2025 free-agent market with a monumental payday. But the heart and soul of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense has a different vision for his future.
In an exclusive interview, Watt shared his unwavering commitment to the Steelers and explained why he chose to remain in Pittsburgh for the long haul. “I’m a Steeler for life,” Watt declared, setting the tone for what will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about decisions of the year. The 28-year-old linebacker, widely regarded as one of the most dominant pass rushers in NFL history, has been the backbone of the Steelers’ defense since his arrival. His relentless energy, leadership, and passion for the game have made him a living legend in Pittsburgh.
The decision comes as a major surprise, considering the massive financial offers Watt turned down. Both the Eagles and Ravens, desperate to add a game-changing pass rusher to their defenses, offered Watt contracts that would have paid him $200 million over four years. This would have made Watt one of the highest-paid defensive players in NFL history, securing his financial future for multiple generations. Yet, despite the lure of the massive payday, Watt chose loyalty over money.
“I’ve been here since day one. This city, this team, this fanbase—they’ve supported me through everything,” Watt explained. “It’s not just about football. It’s about building something special here, something bigger than myself. I want to bring a Super Bowl back to Pittsburgh. That’s my mission, my legacy. The money, the fame—it’s all secondary. This is where I belong.”
Fans in Pittsburgh are celebrating Watt’s decision, and the Steelers organization is reportedly “ecstatic” to have their star pass rusher commit to the team for the long term. Steelers owner, Art Rooney II, expressed his excitement, saying, “T.J.’s loyalty to the Steelers is unmatched. We are thrilled to have him with us for the future. His commitment to excellence and his leadership on and off the field represent everything this organization stands for.”
Watt’s decision could change the landscape of the NFL, as other star players are left to wonder if financial success is truly the only way to greatness. For now, Watt is focused on one thing: winning with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The NFL world is buzzing, and one thing is clear: T.J. Watt is carving his own path—and it’s leading straight through Pittsburgh.
Watt’s Legacy in Pittsburgh
As he enters the 2025 season with a contract that will likely see him finish his career with the Steelers, Watt’s place in Pittsburgh’s football lore is already secure. Since being drafted in 2017, he has become one of the most feared and respected pass rushers in the league. His ability to dominate on defense, along with his leadership both on and off the field, has made him an iconic figure in the Steel City.
Turning down the monumental $200 million offers only strengthens his bond with the team and solidifies his position as a true franchise player. Watt’s loyalty is expected to be the cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense as they continue to chase their Super Bowl aspirations.
With the Steelers looking to remain contenders in the AFC, Watt’s leadership and commitment could be the key to their future success. His dedication to Pittsburgh will be felt for years to come.
The question remains: Will T.J. Watt’s decision to reject $200 million redefine what it means to be a franchise player in today’s NFL? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: his unwavering loyalty to the Steelers will leave an indelible mark on both the franchise and the league.
The Kansas City Chiefs have not said for sure if first-round left tackle Josh Simmons will start in Week 11 against the Denver Broncos, and the decision to remain notably cryptic may involve some gamesmanship from head coach Andy Reid.
“Andy Reid says there is a ‘chance’ Josh Simmons will start against the Broncos,” the KC Star’s Pete Sweeney reported on November 14, two days before the Chiefs’ Week 11 matchup. “Reid said he wants to watch the film and get with OL coach Andy Heck before making a final decision.”
Not long after, KC Star colleague Sam McDowell followed up on Sweeney’s report, informing: “Andy Reid certainly wasn’t definitive, but after his presser today, left with the impression Josh Simmons will play Sunday.”
Naturally, Reid is keeping this left tackle decision close to the vest as the chess match ensues between him and Broncos counterpart Sean Payton.
Payton went the entire week without ruling out running back J.K. Dobbins, despite rumors that he could be out multiple weeks with a foot injury. Similarly, the Chiefs chose not to rule out running back Isiah Pacheco until Friday.
That’s gamesmanship at its finest between two stalwart NFL head coaches.
GettyKansas City Chiefs rookie left tackle Josh Simmons.
The Simmons news couldn’t come at a better time for the Chiefs.
Denver flaunts a league-leading pass rush that has already accumulated a whopping 46 sacks. For reference, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks are tied for second with 32 sacks, and Kansas City only has 20 team sacks in 2025.
Needless to say, having Simmons will be crucial in keeping quarterback Patrick Mahomes upright and out of pressure.
The best way to disrupt the KC offense is by keeping Mahomes off balance with a steady pass rush. Unfortunately for the Chiefs, the Broncos have the players to accomplish this task, and that’s the exact reason general manager Brett Veach spent his 2025 first-round pick on Simmons.
Reid can say that he isn’t 100% sure Simmons is starting in Week 11, but it doesn’t make sense for Kansas City to start a lesser talent in such a crucial divisional game.
If the rookie is healthy, he’ll be in there protecting Mahomes’ blindside. McDowell drew the same conclusion, and it’d be pretty surprising if that wasn’t the case come Sunday.
It took Reid all week to admit it, but Pacheco was finally ruled out on Friday after going the entire week without participating in practice. Later this afternoon, the Broncos did the same with Dobbins.
“Broncos RB JK Dobbins will be out on Sunday vs the Chiefs with a significant foot injury and is believed to be out for the foreseeable future, per me and @TomPelissero,” NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported on November 14.
Rapoport added that “Dobbins is still working through options, and while there’s no final determination, IR remains a possibility.”
It appears both AFC West rivals will be without their starting running backs in Week 11, but the difference is that Pacheco will be KC’s only absence. The Broncos, on the other hand, have ruled out five players, including Dobbins.
The other four “out” designations are cornerback Pat Surtain II, outside linebacker Jonah Elliss, inside linebacker Alex Singleton, and tight end Nate Adkins.