Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt is in the middle of contract extension negotiations.
While he is, he isn’t working with his teammates on the field, but is doing plenty to keep himself in shape and game-ready for Week One against the Buffalo Bills.
While he isn’t with his teammates, he is make some time for Steeler fans, especially among younger ones.
Watt was caught by Post-Gazette photographer Matt Freed during Tuesday’s practice giving a fist bump with three young fans, all in #90 jerseys.
Watt responded to Freed’s tweet saying, “These three reminded me of my brothers and I.”
Of course, those brothers are defensive end J.J., currently with the Arizona Cardinals and tight end Derek, J.T.’s teammate.
But just because T.J. takes time for fans doesn’t mean he wasn’t putting work in.
The Fan’s Jim Colony said that Watt was out with this teammates doing mild condition and did some Individual work pass rush simulation and sideline to sideline sprint.
Colony adds that Watt is exerting himself as much as any of his teammates during practice.