This offseason, Watt was entering into the final season of his previous four-year deal. Seeking long-term financial security, Watt and his team engaged in contract talks that took longer than both sides likely wanted.

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Pittsburgh Steelers made star outside linebacker T.J. Watt the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player on Thursday, signing him to a pact that will keep the perennial All-Pro in black-and-gold well into his 30s.