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Fowler: ‘Sense’ Is T.J. Watt Will Become Highest-Paid Pass Rusher With New Extension

T.J. Watt may soon be resetting the pass rusher market once again — and the Pittsburgh Steelers appear more than willing to make it happen. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the “sense around the league” is that Watt’s next contract extension will make him the highest-paid pass rusher in NFL history.

This potential deal marks a defining moment for both Watt’s career and the Steelers’ financial strategy heading into the 2025 season.

Watt’s Historic Value to the Steelers

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Watt, a perennial All-Pro and 2021 Defensive Player of the Year, has been the cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s defense since being drafted in 2017. With 96.5 career sacks and four first-team All-Pro selections, his on-field dominance and locker room leadership have made him indispensable — even amid contract turbulence.

According to Fowler, “There’s a real sense that T.J. Watt is not just the face of the defense — he is the Steelers.”

Currently, Myles Garrett of the Browns leads all edge rushers with a $40 million annual salary. A new deal for Watt would need to eclipse that number, likely placing him in the $41–43 million per year range — setting a new standard for defensive salaries.

Why This Deal Makes Sense — Even at a Record Price

Steelers' T.J. Watt receives support from Aaron Rodgers

NFL salary cap analysts believe the Steelers are well-positioned to absorb a massive deal for Watt, particularly with Aaron Rodgers expected to retire after the 2025 season, freeing up significant quarterback cap space. Locking in Watt now also prevents further inflation in the pass rusher market.

For fantasy managers and bettors, this extension could further solidify Pittsburgh’s defense as a top-tier unit in 2025. “Fantasy football sleepers 2025” lists already include the Steelers D/ST, and a happy, motivated Watt only strengthens that case.

From a betting perspective, Steelers Super Bowl odds could improve with this news — a boost for those using “best NFL betting apps” to back Pittsburgh’s playoff chances.

Fan and Insider Reactions

J.J. Watt Gives Disheartening Update on Pittsburgh Steelers, T.J. Watt

Reactions across the NFL community have been overwhelmingly positive. One AFC exec anonymously said, “There’s no scenario where Pittsburgh is better without Watt. Pay him what he’s worth.”

Steelers fans echoed that sentiment online, calling the extension a “no-brainer” and “a thank-you to a legend in his prime.” With training camp around the corner, the hope is that this contract is finalized before distractions set in.


More to Read:

  • Steelers’ Defensive Budget Tops NFL Charts: Is It Worth It?

  • T.J. Watt’s Legacy: Where He Ranks Among All-Time Great Edge Rushers

  • Best NFL Betting Apps: Why Pittsburgh Is Climbing Futures Boards

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    Bills Cheerleader Sues Bills Player for Sexual Harassment After He Relentlessly Flirted With Her – Despite Being Married with a Child
    BUFFALO, NY – December 11, 2025 A bombshell lawsuit has just been filed in Erie County Court that has all of Western New York talking. Ashley, the 24-year-old face of the Buffalo Jills and widely regarded as the squad’s most popular and recognizable cheerleader, has officially sued a current Buffalo Bills player for what her legal team calls “persistent and unwanted sexual harassment through aggressive flirting” – even though the player is married with a young child. Court documents obtained today name 27-year-old Shane Buechele – the Bills’ third-string QB who married his high-school sweetheart Reiley in 2022 and has a 2-year-old son – as the defendant. What the lawsuit alleges: Since the start of the 2025 season, Buechele allegedly began sending Ashley private Instagram messages after every home game, complimenting her looks and performances with increasingly suggestive language. Multiple late-night phone calls (some as late as 2-3 a.m.) in which Buechele allegedly complained about his lack of playing time, “just wanted to hear her voice,” and invited her for private coffee meet-ups. Unsolicited shirtless and suggestive photos sent directly to Ashley’s phone. Repeatedly showing up “by coincidence” at community and charity events Ashley was scheduled to attend, creating unwanted one-on-one encounters. In the filing, Ashley states: “I made it crystal clear on multiple occasions that I only wanted a professional relationship and was focused on my career. He completely ignored my boundaries. The middle-of-the-night calls left me terrified and suffering from severe insomnia. This has taken a serious toll on my mental health.” Immediate fallout: The Buffalo Bills have suspended Shane Buechele indefinitely without pay pending an internal investigation. Reiley Buechele has locked all of her social media accounts and has made no public statement. Ashley’s attorney says they will seek damages “well into seven figures” and hope the case sets a precedent for better protection of NFL cheerleaders league-wide. The NFL has confirmed it is monitoring the situation closely and may impose additional discipline. One Bills Mafia is completely split: #TeamAshley supporters are demanding Buechele be cut immediately: “Married with a kid and still doing this? Disgusting.” Others are calling it an overreaction: “Flirty DMs and compliments? This feels like a money grab or a PR stunt.” The case is still in its earliest stages, with an initial court appearance expected in early 2026. What do YOU think – is this legitimate workplace harassment, or is the cheerleader blowing things out of proportion? Drop your take in the comments and turn on notifications – this story is only getting hotter!