
The Pittsburgh Steelers continue to monitor the health of star pass rusher T.J. Watt, who suffered a punctured lung during Pittsburgh’s Week 14 game against the Baltimore Ravens. The injury, described by team officials as “serious but manageable,” left Watt hospitalized briefly before being discharged on Friday.
While he has been ruled out for Sunday’s pivotal matchup against the Miami Dolphins, the team has remained cautiously optimistic, although it’s unclear if he would return to the field this season. Older brother J.J. Watt provided a positive update on Friday, assuring fans that T.J. is in good spirits and recovering well after the frightening setback that momentarily cast doubt over Pittsburgh’s playoff push.
As T.J. works his way back, J.J. briefly stole headlines with a lighthearted admission about his own football future. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Indianapolis Colts vs Seattle Seahawks game, which has dominated storylines because of Philip Rivers’ surprise return, the retired three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year jokingly hinted that he’d still consider suiting up again.
“You want me to come in for 20 pass rush snaps right now? Absolutely, I’ll give you a sack, no question,” Watt said, smiling.
"You want me to come in for 20 pass rush snaps right now? Absolutely, I'll give you a sack no question."
— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS) December 14, 2025
- @JJWatt pic.twitter.com/Dts0UZkY1T
His comments come after Rivers, 44, signed a short-term deal to start for Indianapolis amid Daniel Jones’ season-ending injury in Week 14, marking an unexpected comeback after four years out of the league.
J.J. Watt retired after the 2022 season, ending a storied 12-year career with 114.5 sacks, five All-Pro selections, and three Defensive Player of the Year awards, a résumé that will make him a first-ballot Hall of Famer. His playful remark, however, underscored his enduring passion for the game, especially while watching his brother dominate from afar.
For T.J., his focus now is on returning to full health and helping the Steelers maintain their postseason position. With seven sacks this season, he remains a critical part of Pittsburgh’s defense, and his return could determine whether the team secures a playoff berth down the stretch.
More must-reads:
+
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!