Steelers: When will TJ Watt sign his extension?

Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker TJ Watt is set to sign a record extension sometime this preseason. But when exactly will ink hit paper?

The Steelers rarely negotiate contracts once the season starts, and despite the outstanding play of Watt, they’re unlikely to make an exception for the 26-year-old. A contract extension is looming, that much is certain, and with Watt scheduled to hit NFL Free Agency after next season, the Steelers would rather get a deal done now than later.

Watt is nearing a deal that would make him the highest-paid defensive player in the league. For a player who’s recorded 49.5 sacks over the last two seasons combined, that money will be deserved.

Pittsburgh Steelers: What could TJ Watt’s contract look like?

Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh-Post Gazette believes a deal will be done before the start of the regular season:

"“Now that the preseason is almost over, expect T.J. Watt to sign a contract extension shortly after the Carolina game that will make him the league’s highest-paid defensive player,” Dulac wrote."

The Steelers rarely guarantee much money after the first year of a contract, but Watt is a special case. Joey Bosa is currently the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL in new money at $27 million per season. Watt wants to beat the mark and then some, and he likely will.

Considering Ben Roethlisberger will be coming off the books next offseason, the Steelers can afford this contract as well. So, expect this matter to be resolved in the coming weeks before the Steelers season-opener against the Bills.