In what could be one of the most intriguing storylines of the NFL offseason, Pittsburgh Steelers star pass rusher T.J. Watt is reportedly eyeing the Detroit Lions as a potential landing spot—if his ongoing contract dispute with the Steelers isn’t resolved. Though Watt remains under contract through the 2025 season, he notably skipped the team’s mandatory minicamp earlier this month, fueling speculation about his long-term future in Pittsburgh.
The buzz began when Neal Ruhl of Woodward Sports Network revealed that Watt had privately expressed interest in joining the Lions during a conversation with another NFL player. While no official request has been made, and no trade is imminent, the mere mention of Detroit by a player of Watt’s caliber has sent shockwaves through both fanbases.
The main attraction for Watt? Lions head coach Dan Campbell. Known for his intense, player-focused leadership style, Campbell has rapidly transformed Detroit into one of the league’s most respected locker rooms. Watt reportedly holds Campbell in high regard and sees the Lions as a team on the rise—both competitively and culturally.
For now, the Steelers hold all the cards. Watt, a three-time All-Pro and the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, is set to earn $20 million in 2025, the final year of his current deal. However, the linebacker market has continued to evolve, and Watt is said to be seeking an extension that reflects his elite production. If talks remain stalled, Pittsburgh could find itself in a difficult position: either meet Watt’s demands or risk losing their defensive cornerstone down the road.
From the Lions’ perspective, the idea of pairing Watt with rising star Aidan Hutchinson is a tantalizing one. Detroit has already built a young, aggressive defense and could become one of the NFL’s most feared units if a player like Watt were to join the mix.
Still, a move won’t happen anytime soon. Unless a trade materializes—which appears unlikely—the earliest Watt could hit free agency would be the 2026 offseason. Until then, all eyes are on Pittsburgh’s front office. Will they secure Watt with a new deal, or will the Lions truly become a realistic destination for one of the league’s most dominant defenders?
