In a moment that thrilled Steelers Nation, All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt confirmed he intends to retire as a Pittsburgh Steeler, making an emotional promise to the city and its fans. Speaking at a press conference on Monday afternoon, Watt made it clear that he has no plans to wear another uniform in his NFL career.
“I want everyone to know, I’m going to retire a Steeler,” Watt said. “This organization believed in me from the start. The Rooney family, Coach Tomlin, my teammates—Pittsburgh is home. I owe it to the fans to give them everything I have until the day I hang it up.”
The 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year has been the centerpiece of the Steelers’ defense since being drafted in the first round in 2017. Watt holds the franchise’s single-season sack record, having tied the NFL record with 22.5 sacks in 2021. He has also been the heartbeat of a unit that has remained consistently tough and feared throughout his tenure.
During his announcement, Watt also promised Steelers fans he would do everything in his power to bring another Lombardi Trophy back to Pittsburgh.
“I’m not satisfied with individual awards. I want championships,” he said. “This city deserves another Super Bowl. That’s my focus every day I put on the black and gold.”
The Steelers front office is reportedly working to ensure Watt finishes his career in Pittsburgh. Team sources say there is already discussion of extending his contract to keep him locked in for the remainder of his prime. Watt is currently under contract through 2025 after signing a four-year, $112 million extension in 2021 that made him the highest-paid defensive player at the time.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin praised Watt’s loyalty and commitment.
“He’s the ultimate competitor, and he understands what it means to be a Pittsburgh Steeler,” Tomlin said. “T.J.’s leadership on and off the field is second to none. We’re fortunate to have him.”
Fans flooded social media with messages of support, hailing Watt as one of the greatest Steelers of all time. Many pointed out that his commitment to finish his career in Pittsburgh echoes the loyalty of legends like Hines Ward, Troy Polamalu, and his brother J.J. Watt, who retired after his entire career with Houston and Arizona but always valued team legacy over jumping for new deals.
For the Steelers and their fans, Watt’s promise means the defense will have its leader—and face of the franchise—for years to come.
