Major Update on T.J. Watt's Status With the Pittsburgh Steelers

T.J. Watt has reportedly returned to the Pittsburgh Steelers amid an ongoing contract issue.

ESPN's Brooke Pryor reports Watt was "back at practice" on Wednesday (September 8) and "fully participating," which included "the team period."

Last month, Steelers defensive coordinator Keith Butler confirmed Watt wasn't practicing because he's yet to sign a long-term contract agreement, WPXI reported.

Watt had previously participated in on-field individual drills but has been absent from team training camp activities at Heinz Field.

Butler addressed Watt's absence while speaking to reporters after the team's August 7 practice and said there was no timetable for the 2020 Defensive Player of the Year award finalist to begin participating in team drills.

“That’s none of my business,” Butler said via WPXI. “I hope he signs a contract. When he gets it done, then we’ll talk about that.”

Head coach Mike Tomlin also said he wouldn't speculate on when Watt was expected to begin participating in team drills at the time.

“I’m just focused on today and who’s working and getting better that way,” Tomlin said via WPXI. “I’m sure that’s going to naturally run its course. I know (Watt) is working hard with our trainers, so we’ll see where it all leads us.”

Watt is currently in the final deal of his rookie contract and had previously stated that he didn't intend to hold out for a long-term deal.

Steelers team officials have said they plan on signing Watt to a long-term deal, but team policy prevents contract negotiations from taking place once the regular season begins.

“I love this team, I love all of the coaches and this staff here, and the players,” Watt said on the opening day of training camp viaWPXI. “I am excited for this season, and that’s why I’m here.”

Last season, Watt led the NFL in sacks (15) and tackles for loss (26), while also recording 53 tackles, one interception, two forced fumbles, and 41 QB hits.

Colin Cowherd Says We Need to Stop Overhyping This Pro Bowl NFL Quarterback

Top 10 NFL Teams Heading Into Week 1 According to Colin Cowherd

Ex-NFL Player Says Adam Sandler's 'Waterboy' Character Was Inspired By Him

Colin Cowherd Predicts Which NFL Teams Will Make the Playoffs

Rob Parker Demands Former Patriots Player Address Team's Cheating Scandals

Former Patriots Star Makes Shocking Comments About Bill Belichick

NFL Quarterbacks Under 25 that Colin Cowherd Has the Most Confidence In

Colin Cowherd Chooses Between Tua Tagovailoa or Other NFL Quarterbacks

Doug Gottlieb: Cam Newton Got Cut Because He's Not a Good Quarterback

Colin Cowherd on Cam Newton: 'I Wouldn't Bring in Unvaccinated Quarterback'

The Real Reason Cam Newton was Released by the Patriots


View Full Site