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T.J. Watt signs record contract extension from Steelers

T.J. Watt secures a $123 million contract extension, raising eyebrows in player valuation debates.

July 19, 2025 at 01:53 PM
blur Mark Madden's Hot Take: How is T.J. Watt worth more than Sauce Gardner?

T.J. Watt's new contract sparks discussion on player value in the NFL.

T.J. Watt's contract raises questions about value compared to Sauce Gardner

T.J. Watt has signed a three-year, $123 million contract extension with $108 million guaranteed, becoming the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL with an average annual value of $41 million. In contrast, Sauce Gardner received a four-year, $120.4 million extension with $60 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid cornerback at an average of $30.1 million. While Gardner, at 24, is still in his prime and has excelled as a first-team All-Pro, questions arise regarding Watt's value, as he is 30 years old and statistically showed signs of decline last season, with significant games without sacks.

Key Takeaways

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T.J. Watt signed a $123 million three-year contract extension.
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Sauce Gardner's contract is worth $120.4 million over four years.
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Watt became the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.
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Gardner at 24 is younger and more statistically impressive than Watt.
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Questions about Watt’s performance raise doubts about his contract value.
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The NFL’s market often favors edge rushers over cornerbacks.

"You pay a player for what he will do, not what he’s already done."

This highlights the debate over valuing player potential versus past performance.

"Gardner eliminates half the field and neutralizes the opposition’s top receiver."

This emphasizes Gardner's crucial role in a successful defense.

"Watt is almost certainly past his prime at 30."

The age factor raises questions about Watt's future performance and value.

"Why are edge rushers worth more than cornerbacks?"

This rhetorical question underscores the imbalance in player valuation in the NFL.

The disparity in contract values for T.J. Watt and Sauce Gardner highlights a broader issue in NFL player valuation. Watt’s contract reflects a tendency to reward established edge rushers, despite Gardner’s immediate impact as a shutdown corner. As NFL offenses evolve, the role of cornerbacks is increasingly vital, yet they often receive less financial recognition. The conversation around these contracts reveals not only individual player performance metrics but also market perceptions that may undervalue the strategic importance of cornerbacks in today’s game.

Highlights

  • Why pay more for a fading edge rusher than a prime shutdown corner?
  • Watt’s excellence is evident, but is it worth the price?
  • Stats may favor Gardner in a changing NFL landscape.
  • Is the market undervaluing cornerbacks in contract negotiations?

Concerns about player valuation and market disparity

The differing contract values for T.J. Watt and Sauce Gardner highlight potential market biases that could affect future negotiations and team strategies, suggesting a need for reassessment of player valuation across positions.

The dynamics of player contracts may shape future negotiations in the league.

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