Watt returns to Steelers practice absent extension

Pittsburgh Steelers pass-rusher T.J. Watt was a full participant in team practice Wednesday for the first time this offseason amid ongoing extension negotiations.

Watt, who's entering the final year of his rookie deal, had been conducting individual drills.

"I thought he looked good. He was engaged. He has been (a) full participant in walk-throughs," head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters, including Joe Rutter of the Pittsburgh Tribune.

"He's a smart guy. He can learn from watching others, and it's evident in watching him work today."

Tomlin said on Tuesday that he expected Watt's return for Wednesday and that he's optimistic a deal will be reached.

Tomlin also said he's assuming that Watt will play Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills, according to ESPN's Brooke Pryor.

Additionally, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger vouched for Watt to get the payday he deserves.

"One of the reasons I took less money was for guys like him to get paid," Roethlisberger said Wednesday, per Pryor. "And he needs to get paid. He deserves every penny that he wants and asks for."