3S. THE SCARIEST NEWS YET: WATT’S LUNG ISSUE HOLDS HIM OUT.T.J. Watt’s return is delayed. Dealing with a severe lung issue, the All-Pro LB is unlikely to face the Lions, leaving a massive, season-defining void on the Steelers’ defense. This goes beyond football.
🚨 Disaster in Pittsburgh: Steelers Face Lions Without Star Pass Rusher T.J. Watt
The Pittsburgh Steelers are riding a hot two-game winning streak. They are currently preparing for a crucial Week 16 matchup against the tough, determined Detroit Lions.
However, when they take the field, a major piece will be missing. The Steelers are highly likely to be without their superstar pass rusher, the formidable T.J. Watt.
Watt did not participate in practice on Thursday this week. He is still aggressively working his way back from a serious and complicated lung injury, per NFL Network reports.
It appears highly unlikely he will return for the critical Detroit matchup. The team is prioritizing his long-term health over immediate, short-term availability on the field.
Watt suffered a partially collapsed lung before facing the Dolphins. He was forced to undergo emergency surgery and is now focused solely on his slow road to recovery.
Since his surgery, Watt has not been able to return to practice. This clearly indicates the severity of the injury and the measured approach the team is taking with his health.
The Steelers fully know his importance to their defensive success. Watt’s presence brings an entirely different element of chaos to their already aggressive unit.
However, the organization absolutely refuses to rush his return. Especially since the star linebacker is bravely dealing with a serious and lingering lung issue.
Still, there has been no official word on his injury being season-ending. The team and the fans remain hopeful for his return before the playoffs begin in January.
Now leading the AFC North with an 8-6 record, Pittsburgh has its eyes set. They are focused intensely on securing their coveted postseason ticket in the AFC bracket.
When Watt does eventually make his powerful return to the field: It will be an extremely scary and unsettling sight for any offense the Steelers are forced to face.
In the 13 games he has appeared in this season, Watt has dominated. He has already put up 53 total tackles, 18 quarterback hits, and seven crucial sacks for the defense.
His presence dramatically changes Pittsburgh’s entire defensive identity. It is a massive, disruptive force that every single opposing offensive coordinator must plan around.
It is one essential element the Steelers will definitely not have in Week 16. They will have to find a way to generate pressure without their best and most feared pass rusher.
The Steelers cannot afford many more costly losses right now. They need every victory possible as they desperately look to punch their postseason ticket firmly this month.
They must look to keep their strong momentum going this Sunday. Pittsburgh needs to increase their current win streak to three games, all without Watt joining his teammates.
The defense must step up and compensate for the huge loss. This critical matchup is a true test of the Steelers’ depth and their unwavering commitment to winning as a team.
Can the Steelers survive this unexpected, massive absence? The team needs every player to rise to the occasion and prove their worth against a very tough Lions opponent.
