The Pittsburgh Steelers just got a major boost at the right time of the season - and it comes in the form of No. 90 suiting up again.
T.J. Watt was back on the practice field Wednesday, marking his first action since suffering a lung injury earlier this month. Video from practice showed the All-Pro edge rusher participating, a welcome sight for a Steelers team fighting for positioning in a tight AFC North race.
It’s a significant development, especially considering the nature of Watt’s injury. Back on December 10, Watt sustained a partially collapsed lung following a dry needling session at the team facility - a rare and serious setback that sent him to the hospital and required surgery.
Since then, the Steelers have kept details close to the vest, offering no clear timeline for his return. But Wednesday’s practice participation signals that Watt is trending toward a return - possibly as soon as this weekend.
And that timing couldn’t be more critical. The Steelers head into a pivotal Week 17 clash with the Cleveland Browns, a game that could have major implications for the AFC North crown. Depending on how the Ravens fare against the Packers on Saturday, Pittsburgh could either clinch the division with a win - or set up a winner-take-all showdown in Week 18.
If Baltimore stumbles against Green Bay, the door swings wide open for the Steelers to lock up the division with a victory over Cleveland. But if the Ravens take care of business, Pittsburgh would need to beat the Browns to stay alive in the race. A loss in that scenario would push the title fight to the final week of the regular season.
That’s why Watt’s return matters so much. Even if the Steelers find themselves in a situation where the Week 17 result doesn’t directly impact their playoff seeding, getting Watt back on the field is still a smart move. He hasn’t played since December 7, and shaking off the rust now - instead of waiting until a potential do-or-die game in Week 18 - could be the difference between a dominant Watt and a rusty one when it matters most.
Watt’s presence alone changes the dynamic of Pittsburgh’s defense. He’s not just a pass rusher - he’s a tone-setter, a leader, and the kind of player who can swing a game with one play. Whether he’s at 100% or still ramping up, having him on the field gives the Steelers a psychological and tactical edge.
So while it remains to be seen whether Watt suits up against the Browns, the fact that he’s back practicing is a clear sign the Steelers are getting healthier - and more dangerous - at exactly the right time.