Around the AFC North: T.J. Watt Posts Cryptic Message With Contract Year Looming

Pittsburgh Steelers star T.J. Watt has sparked speculation about his contract situation with a cryptic Instagram post. Watt, who is entering the final year of his deal, posted a photo of himself flashing the “peace out” sign, leading some to wonder if he’s hinted at a potential departure from the team.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Watt’s post may be a way of keeping the heat on the Steelers in contract negotiations. “Probably more likely [it’s] one of those cryptic social media tweets where he’s having negotiations with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a long-term contract extension, [and] talks have not yet resulted in a deal,” Rapoport said.

Watt’s stats compare favorably to those of Myles Garrett, who recently signed a lucrative new deal with the Cleveland Browns. Since both players entered the NFL in 2017, Watt has more sacks, forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, and interceptions. It’s likely that Watt will be aiming for a similar payday to Garrett’s $40 million per year.

Meanwhile, other AFC North teams are looking to make moves. The Cincinnati Bengals are counting on third-year edge rusher Myles Murphy to break out after a disappointing rookie season. Murphy has been working on his pass-rush technique and has reduced the amount of sugar in his diet, feeling ready for a big year.

“Just trying to be way better than last year, for sure,” Murphy said. “I ended the season at 282 and three weeks ago I was 265-267. Since then, I’ve been packing on muscle.”

The Cleveland Browns are also looking to bolster their roster, signing quarterback Joe Flacco and potentially adding a young quarterback in the draft. Kenny Pickett is looking forward to competing with Flacco and believes he’ll emerge as the starter next season.

“That’s the plan, man (to start),” Pickett said. “I’m not going there to hang out. I want to go play. I’m excited, been working hard for it, taking it a day at a time.”

The AFC North is shaping up to be a competitive division, with several teams looking to make a push for the playoffs. The Steelers’ contract situation with T.J. Watt will be one to watch, as will the development of young players like Myles Murphy and Kenny Pickett.