There’s no question that the Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a critical moment with T.J. Watt’s contract situation. But despite what some headlines might suggest, this isn’t the kind of ugly standoff that tears franchises apart.
Yes, we’re just days away from training camp at this point, and no, there hasn’t been much reported progress. Still, I believe there's more hope than worry here.
Since the beginning of the offseason, Watt has made it clear: he wants a new deal heading into the final year of his current contract. That’s not a surprise for a four-time All-Pro who’s arguably been the most dominant edge rusher in the NFL over the last seven seasons.