Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Steelers Announce T.J. Watt News Before Ravens Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Dec 30, 2025 3:11 PM ET

It all comes down to Week 18 for the Pittsburgh Steelers, led by head coach Mike Tomlin.

The Steelers are heading into a matchup against the Baltimore Ravens where the winner will win the AFC North and advance to the playoffs and the loser will be eliminated from playoff contention.

After losing to the Cleveland Browns, the pressure stands on the Steelers who had previously held a comfortable spot at the top of their respective division.

Part of the Steelers' recent struggles include the loss of linebacker T.J. Watt. The Steelers star has been out for an extended period after a lung issue.

On Tuesday, Tomlin issued a statement on Watt, sharing his availability before Week 18.

"We’ll work him up over the course of the week and let the amount of participation and quality of participation be our guide. … I’m more optimistic than I’ve been in previous weeks," Tomlin said.

#Steelers coach Mike Tomlin on TJ Watt (lung): “We’ll work him up over the course of the week and let the amount of participation and quality of participation be our guide. … I’m more optimistic than I’ve been in previous weeks.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 30, 2025

Watt has missed the past three games after suffering a partially collapsed lung during a procedure at the team facility. As Watt recovers, Tomlin is looking for the Steelers' top player to return in Week 18.

The last time Watt suited up for the Steelers was Dec. 7 when they defeated the Ravens 27-22 in Baltimore.

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90).Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Watt is a four-time first-team All-Pro and the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year. In 13 games this season, he has 53 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, seven sacks, three forced fumbles and one interception.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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