In a move as shocking as it is unprecedented, Pittsburgh Steelers superstar T.J. Watt has rejected a jaw-dropping $20.5 million NIL offer to play college basketball for either the University of Kentucky or the University of Notre Dame, choosing instead to remain with the only team he’s ever known — the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The seven-time Pro Bowler, three-time Defensive Player of the Year, and future Hall of Famer delivered the news himself Thursday morning at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. His message was direct, defiant, and drenched in black and gold pride:
“I have no plans beyond being a Steelers champion.”
Watt’s decision, while stunning to many, is the latest flashpoint in a sports world where NIL money, dual-sport opportunities, and athlete mobility have redefined what’s possible. But while others chase dollars, Watt has made it clear — he’s chasing rings.
The Offer That Stunned the Sports World
According to multiple league and NCAA sources, the offer Watt received was one of the richest in NIL history. Structured to bring him onto a college basketball court for the 2025–2026 season, both Kentucky and Notre Dame presented plans that included:
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A $20.5 million NIL package
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Revenue-sharing from jersey and merchandise sales
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Endorsements with national brands
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Opportunities for media appearances and hosting roles on streaming platforms
Both programs hoped to leverage Watt’s athleticism, charisma, and unrivaled work ethic into not just on-court dominance, but a full-blown marketing phenomenon. And, surprisingly, the plan had some legal footing: NCAA rules, as revised in 2023, allow for an athlete with remaining eligibility in one sport to compete collegiately, even if they’ve already turned pro in another — so long as academic enrollment is maintained.
Watt, who starred in basketball as a high school athlete in Wisconsin before focusing solely on football at the University of Wisconsin, still technically had eligibility to play college hoops. What Kentucky and Notre Dame offered was more than a contract — it was a courtship.
But Watt wasn’t swayed.
“I don’t do this for headlines. I do it for legacy. My legacy is here — in Pittsburgh, with this defense, this locker room, this city.”
Watt’s Ironclad Commitment to the Steelers
Watt, 30, has been the heartbeat of the Steelers defense since being drafted in the first round in 2017. Known for his relentless motor, ferocious pass-rushing skills, and leadership on and off the field, Watt has already etched his name into franchise lore.
With 102.5 career sacks and counting, he’s second only to James Harrison on the Steelers’ all-time sack list. His 2021 season, in which he tied Michael Strahan’s single-season sack record with 22.5, is widely regarded as one of the greatest individual defensive performances in NFL history.
And now, by turning down a once-in-a-lifetime NIL offer, Watt has added another chapter to his legacy — one that goes beyond the gridiron.
“T.J. is everything you want in a football player and a teammate,” said head coach Mike Tomlin. “He’s the definition of loyalty. He’s the standard.”
A Cultural Moment: NIL, College Basketball, and the Watt Factor
In many ways, this moment is bigger than just football or basketball. It speaks to the shifting tectonic plates of modern sports. NIL deals have transformed college athletics, creating opportunities for student-athletes that once seemed impossible — and introducing a new level of competition for talent, even from the pros.
That’s why Kentucky and Notre Dame were willing to take the gamble. The idea of putting T.J. Watt on the court — not just as a player, but as a brand, a draw, and a leader — could have brought millions in revenue and media attention to either program.
“This would’ve been the equivalent of Bo Jackson in reverse,” said sports business analyst Marcus Grier. “It wasn’t about long-term basketball potential. It was about star power, spectacle, and NIL momentum. But Watt chose integrity over innovation.”
The Brothers Watt and the Meaning of Loyalty
Part of what makes this story even more compelling is the Watt family legacy. T.J.’s brothers — J.J. Watt (retired NFL superstar) and Derek Watt (also a former Steeler) — are known not just for their athletic talent, but for their grounded approach to fame and fortune.
Their mantra has always been about grit, work, and family. And T.J., it seems, is keeping that tradition alive.
“This wasn’t even a question,” J.J. said in an interview with ESPN. “That’s not who T.J. is. He’s a Steeler through and through. And he still has work to do.”
Indeed, while the NIL headlines were tempting, Watt’s eyes remain locked on a prize that’s eluded him: a Super Bowl ring.
Fan Reactions: Black and Gold Forever
Steelers Nation didn’t waste time showing their appreciation. Within hours of the announcement, #WattLoyalty was trending nationwide on X (formerly Twitter), and murals featuring T.J. Watt began popping up around downtown Pittsburgh.
“In an era where it’s all about the bag, Watt just showed what it means to be a real one,” said longtime fan Michelle Torres, wearing her #90 jersey outside Acrisure Stadium. “He’s not just a player — he’s Pittsburgh.”
One fan’s post that went viral read:
“LeBron left Cleveland. Brady left New England. T.J. Watt stayed in Pittsburgh. Build this man a statue.”
What’s Next: A Championship in Sight?
With Watt reaffirming his dedication, the Steelers enter the 2025 offseason with renewed energy. Coming off an 11-6 season and a playoff berth, Pittsburgh boasts one of the youngest, most dynamic defenses in the NFL. Paired with emerging offensive talents and a revamped offensive line, expectations for a deep postseason run are high.
“I’m not chasing dollar signs,” Watt said. “I’m chasing Lombardis. And I think we’ve got the squad to do it.”
Watt also hinted at offseason workouts starting next week, saying he’s “never been hungrier” and is focused on elevating his game even further.
Conclusion: In the Age of Change, Watt Is the Constant
In a sports world that often feels unrecognizable — where athletes are brands, NIL has changed the definition of amateurism, and mobility reigns supreme — T.J. Watt just made the ultimate throwback move.
He chose team over temptation, legacy over leverage, and a shot at history over a headline.
For the University of Kentucky and Notre Dame, this is a setback — a dream that never got to walk onto the court. But for Pittsburgh? It’s a rallying cry.
T.J. Watt isn’t just playing for a championship. He’s becoming part of something much bigger: a symbol of what it means to stay true to your roots, your teammates, and your mission.