Dolphins Eye Monday Night Edge as T.J. Watt’s Status Hangs in the Balance
As the Miami Dolphins prepare for a high-stakes Monday night clash in Pittsburgh, all eyes are on one of the NFL’s most disruptive defenders - and whether he’ll be on the field at all. Steelers star T.J.
Watt is currently undergoing evaluation for a lung issue at a local hospital, and his status remains uncertain. Head coach Mike Tomlin didn’t sugarcoat it, calling Watt’s availability “really up in the air.”
That’s potentially massive news for a Dolphins team that’s built its offensive identity on speed, space, and a relentless ground game. And with running back De’Von Achane trending toward a return, Miami could be getting a key playmaker back at just the right time.
Achane, who had been nursing a rib injury, avoided a fracture and received positive MRI results - a best-case scenario for a player whose game is all about burst and agility. He’s been ramping up in practice, and with the extra day of prep before Monday night, head coach Mike McDaniel expects his young back to be a full go. That’s great news for a Dolphins offense that thrives when it can dictate tempo and stretch defenses horizontally.
And Achane hasn’t just been good - he’s been electric. In November, he was named AFC Offensive Player of the Month after racking up 495 rushing yards and 630 scrimmage yards, both league-leading totals. He’s become a home-run threat every time he touches the ball, and his ability to turn the corner and get downhill in a flash has made Miami’s perimeter run game one of the league’s most dangerous.
That’s exactly where T.J. Watt’s potential absence looms largest.
Watt isn’t just an elite pass rusher - he’s a tone-setter on the edge. His presence forces offenses to adjust their run schemes, often funneling plays back inside where help is waiting.
Without him, the Steelers lose not only their top sack artist but also a critical component in controlling the outside run game - which just so happens to be Miami’s wheelhouse.
The Steelers have already shown vulnerability on the ground, giving up back-to-back 200-yard rushing performances and slipping to 21st in the league in run defense. That’s not where you want to be when facing a Dolphins team that ranks 8th in rushing and is built to attack the perimeter with speed and spacing.
If Watt can’t go, Miami’s offensive line may find itself with more favorable matchups on the edge, allowing Achane to get to the second level more consistently. And once he’s in the open field, that’s where he’s most dangerous. The Dolphins could find themselves in position to control the line of scrimmage, dictate pace, and force Pittsburgh’s defense into early adjustments.
Of course, the Steelers are no strangers to adversity, especially on defense. But there’s no denying Watt’s impact - or how much tougher life becomes for Pittsburgh without him on the field.
As kickoff approaches, the Dolphins will be monitoring Watt’s status as closely as anyone. With Achane looking ready to return and the Steelers’ run defense already reeling, Miami has a real opportunity to take control early and ride their ground game to a statement win on Monday night.