T.J. Watt’s return is still on hold - and it looks like Steelers fans will have to wait at least another week to see their defensive cornerstone back on the field.
Despite earlier optimism that the Pro Bowl linebacker would make it back before the end of the regular season, signs are pointing toward him missing his second straight game. Watt, who’s been sidelined with a lung injury, did not participate in practice again this week, making it increasingly unlikely that he’ll suit up for Pittsburgh’s Week 16 matchup against the Detroit Lions.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported Thursday that Watt remains out of action, casting serious doubt on his availability for Sunday’s game in Detroit. It’s a tough blow for a Steelers defense that, while capable, is simply not the same without its game-wrecking pass rusher.
Watt, 31, missed his first game of the season in Week 15 - a Monday night win over the Miami Dolphins that saw Pittsburgh’s defense step up in his absence. The Steelers handled business with a 28-15 victory, but when you’re talking about one of the most disruptive defensive players in the league, there’s no true replacement.
The 2021 AP Defensive Player of the Year remains a key piece of Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes. His presence on the edge changes the calculus for opposing offenses - whether it’s collapsing the pocket, forcing errant throws, or simply drawing enough attention to open lanes for his teammates.
Should Watt be ruled out for Sunday, his next shot at returning would come in Week 17, when the Steelers head to Cleveland for a divisional clash against the Browns on December 28. With the AFC playoff picture tightening and every snap carrying extra weight, Pittsburgh will be eager to get their defensive leader back in the lineup.
But for now, it appears the Steelers will have to take on the Lions without No. 90 - and that means another week of adjusting on the fly, leaning on depth, and finding ways to generate pressure without one of the league’s premier defensive forces.