The Pittsburgh Steelers took control of the AFC North race with a win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 14. They’ll look to extend that lead in prime time against the Miami Dolphins on ‘Monday Night Football’ in Week 15.
They may have to do it without one of their best players.
Linebacker T.J. Watt is unlikely to play against the Dolphins, per multiple reports, after undergoing surgery to repair his lung.
Watt’s brother, J.J., shared an update on Dec. 12:
Watt, a four-time All-Pro, hasn’t missed a game in the last three years. He’s on pace for his lowest sack total since 2022 – when he missed seven games – with just 7.0 through 13 games. Watt’s made at least the Pro Bowl in each of the last seven seasons.
Here’s what to know about Watt:
TJ Watt injury update
Watt suffered a partially collapsed lung on Dec. 10 and was hospitalized Thursday to repair it. His lung partially collapsed reportedly during a dry needling treatment.
This is not expected to be a season-ending injury for the 2021 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. He may miss Week 15 but should be back before the end of the regular season.
With Watt likely out, Pittsburgh’s defense will rely more on rookie Jack Sawyer and/or Nick Herbig on the edge opposite Alex Highsmith against Miami.
What is dry needling?
Dry needling is a treatment for muscle pain or tightness that uses thin, sharp needles to target a muscle trigger point, similar to acupuncture but with fewer needles.
These trigger points are areas of tight muscle tissue that can arise due to various issues. By targeting these trigger points, dry needling can help by increasing blood flow and reducing pain.
NFL players can often have dry needling performed at team facilities to help with muscle soreness during the season. Watt’s treatment not an unusual but it’s unusual that his lung partially collapsed during treatment.