New England Patriots - NESN.com
A trade sending Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt to the New England Patriots feels like a long shot, but it might not be as far-fetched as fans think.
A proposed deal would send Watt to Foxborough in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick, a 2027 third-rounder as well as veteran safety Jabrill Peppers. The concept, floated by Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report, would allow Pittsburgh to reset its payroll while giving New England a franchise-altering pass rusher.
Watt skipped mandatory minicamp this offseason, and contract talks remain unresolved. While the Steelers have publicly expressed a desire to keep him long term, teams are reportedly checking in, according to ESPN. With the most cap space in the league and a glaring need off the edge, the Patriots stand out as a logical destination.
New England finished last in sack percentage in 2024. Even with offseason upgrades and a more seasoned coaching staff, their defense still lacks a true game-wrecker.
Adding Watt to a defense that already includes Christian Barmore, Harold Landry III, and Milton Williams could accelerate the rebuild under new head coach Mike Vrabel.
As the offense begins to form around rookie quarterback Drake Maye, Watt would bring leadership and toughness to a defense still searching for an identity.
For Pittsburgh, acquiring Peppers would add versatility alongside DeShon Elliott and Juan Thornhill. Still, the trade would likely be driven more by financial pressure than fit for Pittsburgh, especially after major investments in DK Metcalf and Jalen Ramsey.
The Steelers may want to hold onto Watt. But if the standoff lingers and the right team makes an offer, the situation could change quickly. In the NFL, almost no one is truly untradeable.
