Steelers blockbuster trade rumor could lead to massive deal with Eagles originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers might be looking to shake up their roster in a noticeable way, according to a shocking new report.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler informed the public that star linebacker could become a prime trade candidate for the Steelers sooner than some expected.
“If the Steelers end up signing (Nick) Herbig long term, having three large contracts allocated to one position is a tough proposition,” Fowler wrote. “Watt, for all his greatness, turns 32 in October and has guaranteed salaries of $32 million in both 2026 and 2027.”
“Watt is a legacy player, something Pittsburgh values more than most. But some teams could see Pittsburgh at least considering moving on from him.”
Shortly after Fowler’s report, Breaking the Birds’ Thomas R. Petersen suggested that the Philadelphia Eagles could express interest in the 31-year-old Defensive Player of the Year and potentially land him in a blockbuster deal.
“Some teams think Steelers consider moving on from TJ Watt, per Jeremy Fowler,” Petersen wrote on X/Twitter Thursday. “They should pull off a PA trade. Sent Watt to Philadelphia. Pair A.J. (Brown) and DK (Metcalf) again.”
It’s no secret the Eagles are open to parting ways with Brown. In fact, many believe it’s a foregone conclusion that the three-time Pro Bowler will be the featured piece in a big-time offseason deal with the New England Patriots in June.
Unfortunately for Peterson, that scenario would make it impossible for Watt to end up in Philadelphia and Brown to take his talents to Pittsburgh. If the Steelers somehow managed to enter the Brown sweepstakes, Peterson and the Eagles fan base could theoretically get their ultimate wish (though it’s highly unlikely).
Watts would elevate the Eagles’ run defense and pass rushing attack to new heights, as the former first-round pick is routinely on his P’s and Q’s in those defensive aspects. Watts’ most prolific NFL campaign came in 2021-22, as he finished the year with 64 tackles, 22.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles, earning him an impressive 89.6 Pro Football Focus grade.
Simply put, Watts would be a game-changing addition to Philadelphia, but it’s challenging to envision a deal coming to life anytime soon.
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