The Philadelphia Eagles, led by general manager Howie Roseman, are reportedly considering a blockbuster trade to acquire Pittsburgh Steelers’ superstar T.J. Watt, as negotiations between Watt and the Steelers have stalled. With Watt skipping OTAs and minicamp, speculation about a potential trade has intensified, and the Eagles could be poised to make a bold move to bolster their defense.
Roseman, known for strategic high-profile trades without overspending, last dealt a first-round pick in 2022 to acquire wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Tennessee Titans for the No. 18 and No. 101 overall picks. Now, Bleacher Report’s Mitch Milani suggests Roseman could be eyeing another major deal, this time for the All-Pro edge rusher T.J. Watt.
Proposed Trade Details
While the Steelers are reluctant to part with Watt, who is the cornerstone of their defense, a hypothetical trade proposed by Milani would see the Eagles send a 2026 first-round pick, a 2027 second-round pick, and a 2027 fourth-round pick to Pittsburgh in exchange for the 30-year-old defensive standout. This package reflects fair compensation for a player of Watt’s caliber, who is in the final year of a four-year, $112 million extension signed in 2021. Watt is reportedly seeking a new contract in the $35–40 million per year range.
T.J. Watt’s Stellar Resume
Drafted 30th overall out of Wisconsin in 2017, T.J. Watt has been a dominant force since entering the NFL. His accolades include:
108 career sacks and 33 forced fumbles
Eight consecutive Pro Bowl selections (2018–2024)
Four first-team All-Pro honors
Three Deacon Jones Awards
A record-tying 22.5 sacks in 2021, matching Michael Strahan’s single-season record, earning him Defensive Player of the Year
League-leading 19 sacks in 2023 and 11.5 sacks with six forced fumbles in 2024
Watt’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses with sacks and turnovers makes him a perfect fit for the Eagles’ defensive scheme under coordinator Vic Fangio.
Why the Eagles Need Watt
The Eagles’ pass rush took a hit this offseason with the departure of Josh Sweat, Bryce Huff, and veteran Brandon Graham, who combined for 14 sacks in 2024. The team is now relying on younger players like Nolan Smith (6.5 sacks in 2024), Jalyx Hunt, Azeez Ojulari, and Josh Uche to fill the void. Adding Watt, a proven game-changer, could elevate Philadelphia’s defense to elite status, particularly in a win-now scenario.
Philly Voice’s Jimmy Kempski noted on June 17 that the Eagles are likely exploring options to strengthen their defensive line, stating, “I think that edge rusher is a possibility, depending on what they see from Azeez Ojulari and Josh Uche in training camp.” With $30.8 million in cap space, the Eagles have the financial flexibility to absorb Watt’s hefty contract demands.
A Long Shot, But Worth Pursuing
While trading Watt remains a long shot given his importance to Pittsburgh, the possibility of landing a player of his caliber is tantalizing for a contending team like the Eagles. Roseman’s history of calculated risks suggests he could pull the trigger if the opportunity arises. A trade for Watt would not only address a critical need but also send a clear message that Philadelphia is all-in for a Super Bowl run.