Is T.J. Watt’s time with the Pittsburgh Steelers coming to an end? The defensive superstar is entering the final year of his contract, and the rumor mill is in full swing.

Are the Pittsburgh Steelers even interested in letting their defensive superstar go? According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the 30-year-old is unhappy due to unsuccessful contract extension talks.

Mark Kaboly, who works as a Steelers correspondent for the Pat McAfee Show, recently raised some questions on the subject.

Kaboly posted on “X” on Friday: “[S]ources say there have been no inquiries to other teams about a trade.” So far, so good. However, during an appearance on the radio show “93.7 The Fan,” the journalist said something that at first glance seems contradictory.

When asked what the Steelers could get in return for Watt, Kaboly said of the Steelers: “[T]hey’re obviously inquiring what that might be.” When co-host Andrew Fillipponi seemed concerned about this claim, Kaboly emphasized: “I’m sure that’s due diligence at this point, right?”

T.J. Watt: Agreement with Steelers on new contract in question

Unofficially, as Kaboly emphasized on the show, the Steelers had not negotiated a trade of the outside linebacker with other franchises, but had at least tried to find out what his market value could theoretically be.

This is probably where the truth lies. It is essential for the franchise to explore all options before making a decision on Watt’s future.

Last month’s report from NFL Media did not say, “They will not trade him under any circumstances.” Rather, it said that they have “no intention” of trading Watt.

Ultimately, the question is whether Watt will accept or reject the best offer the Steelers are likely to make before week one of the new NFL season. The defensive star is entering the final year of his contract and, as things stand, would become a free agent in the 2026 offseason.

Myles Garrett’s $40 million per year with the Cleveland Browns serves as a benchmark here. Would Watt demand even more, or would he settle for a few million less per season in order to possibly improve the team’s chances of success?