The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to face off against the Detroit Lions in Week 16 NFL action, but they’re going to have to find a way to pick up a much-needed win without superstar pass rusher TJ Watt on the field.
Watt is still recovering from the partially collapsed lung that he suffered a couple of weeks back. There have been no firm updates about when he could return to the field for the Steelers.
Recently, a cryptic update was offered by Pittsburgh insider Mark Kaboly, who said that “there’s more to the story,” and that “it might not be what you think it is.”
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No one knows what that report could mean. However, another update has been offered about Watt’s future status before this week’s game against the Lions.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter weighed in with more details on the situation. He made it clear that Watt is not focused on getting back on the field. Watt is simply focusing on his health at this point in time.
“After missing two games due to a partially collapsed lung, T.J. Watt’s return to play remains murky and uncertain, per sources,” Schefter wrote on X. “Watt’s focus has been on getting healthy from his partially collapsed lung; returning to play is secondary, and has not been his focus. Doctors will assess how he feels next week to see if there’s even a chance to play in Week 17, but ideally Watt gets more time to recover from his lung injury that resulted in him being ruled out of Sunday’s game vs. Detroit.”
Obviously, that isn’t what the Steelers were wanting to hear. It’s very possible that Watt could continue missing time down the stretch of the regular season.
There is no fault that can be placed on Watt. A partially collapsed lung is a serious issue and his focus should be on getting healthy rather than playing football. However, for a Pittsburgh team that is hoping to make a run at a Super Bowl, having a healthy Watt on the field is a must.
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So far this season, the 31-year-old superstar has played in 13 games. He has racked up 53 total tackles to go along with seven sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, an interception, and seven defended passes.
Just looking at the numbers, Watt’s importance for the Steelers is clear. They need him back as soon as he’s able to return.
Hopefully, a better update comes soon regarding Watt’s health. Pittsburgh is fighting for its playoff life and not having him on the field has made things much more difficult.
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