Las Vegas, NV – June 2, 2025
In a headline-grabbing development that has sent shockwaves through the NFL, the Las Vegas Raiders have officially made a contract offer to All-Pro edge rusher T.J. Watt, one of the league’s most dominant defensive players.
The news broke shortly after Watt himself announced that he was exploring his future, sparking speculation about a possible departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers, the franchise he has spent his entire career with. Watt’s public comments, combined with the Raiders’ formal offer, have set the stage for a potential blockbuster move.
🖋️ Raiders Make Their Move
According to multiple league sources, the Raiders have submitted a formal contract offer to Watt, which reportedly includes:
•A multi-year deal with a significant guaranteed portion
•A salary that would make Watt one of the highest-paid defensive players in NFL history
•Full endorsement from head coach Antonio Pierce, who is believed to have played a direct role in recruiting Watt
Raiders owner Mark Davis has also reportedly given the green light for the aggressive pursuit, emphasizing that the team is “all-in” on building a championship-caliber defense.
🗣️ Steelers GM Responds
In response to Watt’s announcement and the Raiders’ offer, Steelers General Manager Omar Khan addressed the media Monday afternoon, stating:
“T.J. Watt is a core part of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and we fully intend to keep it that way. We are in active discussions with T.J. and his representatives. We respect his right to explore his options, but we are not entertaining trade scenarios or release speculation at this time.”
Khan emphasized that while the Steelers were aware of interest from other teams, no official permission has been granted to negotiate, fueling questions about the legality of the Raiders’ offer and whether tampering rules may come into play.
🔥 What This Could Mean for the Raiders
Adding T.J. Watt to a defense that already features Maxx Crosby and Tyree Wilson would instantly give the Raiders one of the most fearsome pass-rushing trios in the NFL. Watt, a former Defensive Player of the Year, has totaled over 90 career sacks and is widely regarded as one of the most complete defenders in football.
With Antonio Pierce emphasizing a “violent, relentless” defensive identity since taking over as head coach, the pursuit of Watt fits squarely into that vision.
“We want dogs on this defense,” Pierce said earlier this offseason. “Guys who are going to dominate every snap. T.J. Watt is that guy.”
🧠 What’s Next?
T.J. Watt is still under contract with the Steelers through the 2025 season, meaning any move would require a trade or release, neither of which has occurred—yet.
If Pittsburgh refuses to negotiate or match the Raiders’ offer, it could lead to tension between the team and one of its most beloved stars, especially if Watt is publicly voicing a desire for a change of scenery.
NFL insiders suggest that if Watt pushes for a trade, Las Vegas may be preparing a package of premium draft picks and possibly a player to entice the Steelers.
🏈 Final Thoughts
While nothing is official yet beyond the offer itself, the Las Vegas Raiders are making it clear: they intend to be major players in the AFC and are willing to go all-in to land game-changing talent.
The ball is now in Pittsburgh’s court—and in T.J. Watt’s hands.
Stay tuned. This story is far from over.
