Five NFL Franchises That Should Pursue a Trade for T.J. Watt

February 7, 2026 - 18:26

The hypothetical scenario of the Pittsburgh Steelers trading defensive superstar T.J. Watt remains a long shot, but it’s a fascinating exercise that would send shockwaves through the league. Should the Steelers ever entertain offers, several teams emerge as logical, aggressive suitors for the former Defensive Player of the Year.

The Atlanta Falcons, having invested heavily in their offense, now possess a glaring need for a premier pass rusher. Watt would instantly transform their defensive front. Similarly, the Detroit Lions, on the cusp of championship contention, lack an elite edge presence; pairing Watt with Aidan Hutchinson would create a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.

In the AFC, the Houston Texans have ample draft capital and a rising roster that could be catapulted into the Super Bowl conversation by adding a talent of Watt’s magnitude. The Baltimore Ravens, despite the divisional rivalry, are always in "win-now" mode and have a history of making bold moves for defensive impact players.

Finally, the Chicago Bears, with significant resources and a young defense, could view Watt as the definitive cornerstone to build around. Acquiring a player of his caliber, who commands constant double-teams and single-handedly disrupts game plans, is a rare opportunity that would justify a substantial trade package for any contender.