Bold headline: A Steelers star faces a medical setback that could change their plans for the week. And this is the part most people miss: health reality checks can shift game-day plans in an instant.
PITTSBURGH — Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt, a premier pass rusher and former Defensive Player of the Year, is currently resting at a local hospital for further evaluation of his lungs after experiencing discomfort at the team’s facility on Wednesday. Watt’s status for Monday’s game against the Miami Dolphins remains uncertain, according to a statement from team spokesperson Burt Lauten.
Watt, 31, will not participate in practice on Thursday, Lauten confirmed.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Watt sustained a lung-related issue during treatment at the Steelers’ facility on Wednesday and has remained hospitalized since then.
In the most recent game, Watt contributed six tackles (including one for loss) and a quarterback hit in the win over the Ravens, playing 68 snaps, which amounted to 88% of the defensive workload.
The durable veteran, who signed a three-year, $123 million extension in July, has tallied 7 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 1 interception, 18 quarterback hits, and 10 tackles for loss across 13 games this season.
Coach Mike Tomlin did not mention Watt’s health concerns in Tuesday’s press conference. Lauten indicated that Tomlin will offer more updates on Watt at the appropriate time.
Thoughts on Watt’s potential impact if he’s sidelined, and how the Steelers might adjust their defense without him this week? Share your take below.
