Steelers Should Trade TJ Watt To Avoid Getting Left Behind According To Ron Cook

The Pittsburgh Steelers witnessed an intriguing journey during their 2023 season, especially on the offensive front. However, amidst the highs and lows, one undeniable fact remained – TJ Watt was once again the indomitable force that defined the team's success. 

With a league-leading 19 sacks, Watt played a pivotal role in the Steelers' achievement of 10 wins. In fact, one could argue that he was the sole reason behind their victories. 

Watt's impact on the Steelers is colossal, as evidenced by their dismal record in games where he was absent. In this article, we delve into the crazy, but thought-provoking perspective put forth by Ron Cook, a prominent Pittsburgh Post-Gazette columnist and radio co-host. 

Cook recently raised a hypothetical scenario on 93.7 The Fan, suggesting that the Steelers should consider trading Watt to secure their future. While the idea of trading Watt is something that Steeler Nation would have nightmares about, Cook explains why he believes the Steelers should actually consider making the move. 

Steelers Should Trade TJ Watt

Cook, known for his insightful analysis, questioned the Steelers' current standing as legitimate Super Bowl contenders. He proposed the notion of trading Watt, a move that, while initially radical, deserves consideration.

"If you don't look at them as a legit Super Bowl contender right now, and I don't, I would consider trading TJ Watt.”

Cook's argument hinges on the belief that the Steelers are unlikely to win a Super Bowl before Watt retires. He advocates seizing the opportunity to trade him while his value is at an all-time high. The Steelers, as of late, have been stuck in a constant cycle of being average. They have not won a playoff game since the 2016 season.

“I don't think they will because I think they always look at themselves as a Super Bowl contender, even though they haven't won a playoff game in seven years. But would it be outrageous to consider that possibility?"

The return on such a trade would potentially be astronomical, given Watt's exceptional skills, making it a viable strategy for a team in need of a rebuild. Which some Steelers fans do believe is needed for the team to return to competing for Super Bowls again.

Cook recognizes that the Steelers have consistently regarded themselves as Super Bowl contenders, despite their playoff struggles in recent years. While he initially contemplated the idea of trading Watt as a means of rebuilding, he acknowledged the implausibility of such a move. Trading away a player of Watt's caliber is simply unthinkable for any franchise.

While Cook's proposal is intriguing, the truth lies in the Steelers' proximity to becoming Super Bowl contenders once again. They are just a consistent, high-quality quarterback away from transforming into a team capable of making a deep playoff run. 

The Steelers boast an array of offensive talents, including George Pickens, Jaylen Warren, Najee Harris, and Diontae Johnson. These players have the potential to ignite the scoreboard and put the team in a position to succeed. 

With an improving offensive line and Mike Tomlin at the helm, the Steelers have the pieces in place to make a significant impact. While the focus has been on Watt, the Steelers' defense remains a force to be reckoned with when healthy. A strong defense is a cornerstone of successful playoff runs, and the Steelers have the potential to regain their formidable status in the league.

In the end, Cook's thought-provoking proposal to trade Watt raises essential questions about the Steelers' path to Super Bowl contention. While the idea may seem radical, it underscores the need for the franchise to make strategic decisions for its future. 

However, the Steelers are tantalizingly close to becoming contenders once more, with the right pieces in place on both offense and defense. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in the Steelers' journey, one thing is certain – the Steelers will not be trading away Watt.

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