Three Teams Seize Chance to Go All-In for T.J. Watt, Send Irresistible Trade Requests

Pittsburgh, PA – June 11, 2025

T.J. Watt’s holdout from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ mandatory minicamp has sparked a frenzy, with three NFL teams—the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills—submitting blockbuster trade proposals to land the star edge rusher, sources told ESPN. Each offer is designed to be nearly impossible for GM Omar Khan to refuse.

Watt, 30, a three-time sack leader and 2021 Defensive Player of the Year, skipped minicamp to push for a new contract beyond his $112 million deal, set to expire after 2025. His 11.5 sacks and NFL-high six forced fumbles in 2024 make him a coveted prize.

Green Bay’s Offer: The Packers propose sending edge rusher Lukas Van Ness, a 2026 first-round pick (No. 23), a 2027 third-round pick, and CB Keisean Nixon to Pittsburgh for Watt and CB Donte Jackson. Van Ness, a 2023 first-rounder, offers youth with 8.5 sacks in 2024.

Philadelphia’s Proposal: The Eagles offer edge rusher Nolan Smith Jr., a 2026 first-round pick (No. 21), a 2027 third-round pick, and CB Donte Jackson for Watt. Smith, a 2023 first-rounder, had 5.5 sacks in 2024, adding potential to Philly’s pass rush alongside Haason Reddick.

Buffalo’s Bid: The Bills counter with edge rusher Gregory Rousseau, a 2026 first-round pick (No. 18), a 2027 second-round pick, and safety Damar Hamlin for Watt and Jackson. Rousseau, with 7.5 sacks in 2024, pairs with Von Miller to bolster Buffalo’s Super Bowl chase.

Steeler Nation is torn on X: “Trade T.J.? Khan better get a haul!” one fan tweeted. Another begged, “Keep Watt—he’s our soul!” Pittsburgh’s defense, sixth-ranked in 2024, hinges on Watt, but Khan’s $31.88 million cap space, per Spotrac, could fuel a rebuild with these offers.

Each team sees Watt as the missing piece. Green Bay aims to pair him with Rashan Gary, Philly with Josh Sweat, and Buffalo with Miller. The offers’ draft capital and young talent tempt Pittsburgh, especially after six years without a playoff win.

As minicamp continues, Khan faces a pivotal decision. Will he trade the face of the Steelers’ defense or meet Watt’s demands? With Rodgers, Metcalf, and McCaffrey on offense, keeping Watt could spark a title run. Stay tuned to ESPN for updates.