Could Steelers be set to lose star linebacker in 2027?

It's hard to imagine the Pittsburgh Steelers without veteran linebacker T.J. Watt being a part of the equation. But there may come a time in the not-so-distant future when that becomes a hard reality for Steelers fans.

In a recent piece by ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, who spoke with NFL coaches, executives, and scouts about potential 2027 offseason moves,many logged predictions that some defensive drama might play out with the Steelers. Nick Herbig, currently the No. 3 edge rusher for the franchise, is a rising name for many teams after tallying 7.5 sacks last season.

And if the Steelers decide to spend big to retain Herbig, who has played just three seasons in the NFL, it could come at the expense of Watt.

"To the point above: If the Steelers end up signing Herbig long term, having three large contracts allocated to one position is a tough proposition," Fowler wrote, executives told him.

"Watt, for all his greatness, turns 32 in October and has guaranteed salaries of $32 million in both 2026 and 2027. Watt is a legacy player, something Pittsburgh values more than most. But some teams could see Pittsburgh at least considering moving on from him."

Watt has played nine seasons in the NFL, all with the Steelers, and has racked up 115 career sacks. He had a major scare last season, suffering a collapsed lung due to dry needling, but returned to the field after missing a handful of games.

Pittsburgh will open the season with a home game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sept 13th.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Could Steelers be set to lose star linebacker in 2027?