The Steelers could possibly be with out their largest defensive star for Sunday’s season opener towards the Invoice, per a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
Fowler — responding to information that Watt once more didn’t take part within the workforce portion of Pittsburgh’s follow on Monday — stated the fifth-year linebacker’s standing seems “doubtful” for Week 1, citing a “practice-in-order-to-play” stance by the workforce. Watt will not be technically a holdout since he has been current at each follow, however has reportedly solely participated in particular person drills. As soon as the workforce strikes to workforce intervals, he performs his personal exercises to the facet.
Week 1 feels doubtful absent a brand new deal in brief order. Watt stays in wonderful form however Steelers worth practice-in-order-to-play with just about all gamers. https://t.co/BLsgjcBfwT
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) September 6, 2021
MORE: NFL picks, predictions for Week 1: Steelers upset Payments; Buccaneers, Rams, Ravens roll in prime time
The three-time Professional Bowler and two-time All-Professional choice, coming off a season wherein he led the league with a career-high 15 sacks, is reportedly collaborating solely in particular person exercises within the hope of accelerating talks on a brand new deal. He’s coming into the ultimate 12 months of rookie contract with Pittsburgh, wherein he’s owed $10.089 million, per Spotrac.
Based on a report from CBS Sports activities, some have speculated that Sunday’s season opener is the de facto deadline to renegotiate a contract for Watt, contemplating the group’s refusal to barter contracts in the course of the season. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin will reportedly tackle the scenario with media on Tuesday.
