Steelers Daily Roundup: Watt Out, Porter Jr. Locking Down, Dolphins on Deck
As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up for a primetime clash with the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football, the headlines are dominated by both injury news and standout performances. Let’s break down the latest from around the team and what it all means heading into a pivotal Week 15 matchup.
T.J. Watt Out vs. Dolphins After Lung Surgery
The Steelers will be without their defensive cornerstone this week, as head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that T.J. Watt has been ruled out for Monday night’s game following surgery to repair a partially collapsed lung.
Watt suffered the injury during a dry needling treatment session at the team facility earlier in the week. According to a statement from his wife, Dani Watt, the surgery was successful, and he’s now home recovering.
“It has been a very long hard couple of days but he will be home soon to recover,” Dani shared via Instagram. “Thank you all for the incredible outpouring of love, prayers, and support.”
This is a significant loss for a Steelers defense that leans heavily on Watt’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses. With 14 sacks on the season, he’s once again been in the mix for Defensive Player of the Year. His absence shifts even more pressure onto the shoulders of fellow pass-rushers like Alex Highsmith, especially against a high-octane Dolphins offense.
Myles Garrett Sends Well Wishes
In a show of respect that transcends the AFC North rivalry, Browns All-Pro Myles Garrett reached out with a message of support for Watt following the news of his injury. The two edge rushers have been locked in a season-long battle for the league’s sack crown, but Garrett’s gesture underscores the brotherhood that exists among NFL players-especially those who live in the trenches.
J.J. Watt Talks Broadcasting and Bias
Meanwhile, J.J. Watt-now on the other side of the camera-spoke with Sports Illustrated about the challenges of calling games that involve his younger brother. He admitted he tries to stay neutral, but let’s be honest: when your brother is wrecking offensive lines every Sunday, objectivity becomes a bit of a moving target.
Darius Slay Taking Time Away from Football
Veteran cornerback Darius Slay, who was briefly with the Steelers before being waived on Dec. 2, is still undecided about his playing future. Though the Buffalo Bills claimed him off waivers, Slay never reported to the team. According to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, Slay is currently spending time with family and weighing his options for 2025.
Slay’s short stint in Pittsburgh didn’t leave much of a mark on the field, but his name remains one to watch if he decides to return to action next season.
Joey Porter Jr. Is Quietly Dominating
While the defense will be missing Watt, one young star is making plenty of noise without saying much at all. Joey Porter Jr. has been locking down his side of the field with veteran-level confidence. Over his last five games, Porter has allowed just three catches on 13 targets for 31 total yards, while forcing three incompletions and holding opposing quarterbacks to a 39.6 passer rating when targeting him.
Those are elite numbers, and they’re coming at a time when the Steelers need him most. Porter’s physicality at the line and improved discipline in coverage have made him a true CB1 down the stretch.
Gruden Picks Dolphins in MNF Matchup
Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden shared his prediction for Monday night’s showdown, picking the Dolphins to win 23-17. Gruden believes Miami’s explosive running back De’Von Achane will be the key difference-maker.
Achane’s speed and ability to break open a game in one play make him a serious threat, especially against a Steelers front that will be missing its most disruptive force. The Steelers will need a disciplined effort from their linebackers and safeties to keep Achane from flipping the field.
Around the Facility
- Six Steelers missed Friday’s practice due to various injuries, adding to the team’s growing list of concerns ahead of Monday night.
- A wide receiver suffered an injury during practice, though no further details have been released yet.
- Saturday’s practice session was moved, a sign the team is adjusting its schedule to manage the health of the roster and prepare for the Dolphins’ unique offensive scheme.
What’s Next?
With Watt sidelined and the Dolphins rolling into town, this game becomes a major test of depth and resilience for Pittsburgh. The defense will have to lean on players like Highsmith, Porter Jr., and Minkah Fitzpatrick to contain a Miami offense that can stretch the field vertically and horizontally.
Offensively, the Steelers will need to control the clock, protect the football, and take advantage of any short fields their defense can create. It’s a tall order, but not an impossible one-especially under the lights at Acrisure Stadium.
One thing’s for sure: Monday night will be a gut-check moment for a Steelers team still fighting for playoff positioning.