As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for their upcoming voluntary practices at the end of the month, the focus is not solely on attendance but rather the potential absence of key players. Notably, EDGE T.J. Watt and WR George Pickens are both entering the final years of their contracts and are rumored to be seeking long-term extensions, making their participation (or lack thereof) a major talking point.
Brian Batko, a beat writer for the Post-Gazette, highlighted that Watt and Pickens’ contract situations may overshadow other narratives surrounding the team, including that of quarterback Mason Rudolph. Batko expressed that the significance of Watt’s and Pickens’ presence or absence could very well dominate discussions, regardless of what takes place at practice.
The organization has expressed its commitment to securing Watt’s future, aiming to retain him for the remainder of his career. However, recent developments such as Myles Garrett’s massive contract—reportedly worth $40 million annually—have made negotiations more intricate for the Steelers. Watt’s earlier cryptic social media messages sparked speculation about his feelings towards his current contract, although those tensions seem to have eased for now. Regardless, his desire to negotiate a new deal remains evident, especially considering his aim to secure a deal that exceeds Garrett’s lucrative extension.
On the other hand, while Pickens’ prospects for a new contract appear dimmer, the situation is still noteworthy. With a contract for fellow receiver DK Metcalf reaching $150 million, expectations will be high for Pickens moving forward. Although he has maintained a low profile this offseason, his actions during the team’s upcoming activities will be critical for understanding his standing with the franchise.
It is important to note that past practices have shown that players often skip voluntary sessions in light of contract negotiations. Last season, for example, Cam Heyward opted to miss several OTA sessions while addressing his own contract issues before ultimately securing a long-term deal just before the season started.
Fans will be keenly observant as the Steelers approach their mandatory minicamp from June 10-12 and the start of training camp, typically held in late July. These events will likely provide further clarity regarding the futures of Watt and Pickens with the franchise, potentially setting the tone for their upcoming seasons.
Overall, while the contract situations may seem daunting, there remains the hope that both players can find mutually beneficial agreements that allow them to remain integral parts of the Steelers for years to come. Their presence during mandatory practices could help build team cohesion and set the stage for a successful season ahead.