Behind the Steel Curtain
The Pittsburgh Steelers may need to prepare for the possibility of navigating the remainder of the season — and potentially the postseason — without their most impactful defensive player.
Steelers insider Mark Kaboly of The Pat McAfee Show said Wednesday on 93.7 The Fan that the organization would be “very lucky” if outside linebacker T.J. Watt is able to return in time for the playoffs. Watt is currently sidelined after suffering a punctured lung in what has been described as a freak accident related to a medical needling procedure, an injury that forced him to miss Monday night’s game against the Miami Dolphins.
Head coach Mike Tomlin has remained characteristically vague when addressing Watt’s status, reiterating that the team will follow medical guidance and provide updates only when definitive information becomes available. As of now, there is no clear timetable for Watt’s return.
The situation has grown more complicated following news that Nick Herbig, one of Watt’s primary replacements at outside linebacker, exited Monday night’s game with a hamstring injury. Herbig has been a valuable rotational pass rusher this season, and his potential absence further thins an already strained edge group at a critical juncture of the schedule.
Watt’s importance to the Steelers cannot be overstated. A former Defensive Player of the Year and perennial All-Pro, Watt has consistently ranked among the league leaders in sacks, pressures, forced fumbles, and tackles for loss throughout his career. Beyond the raw statistics, his presence alters opposing game plans, drawing double teams and creating opportunities for the rest of the defense. Historically, the Steelers’ defensive performance — particularly against the run and on third down — has shown a marked drop-off in games Watt has missed.
Compounding the concern is the daunting road ahead. Pittsburgh faces a challenging closing stretch with road games at Detroit and Cleveland, followed by a regular-season finale at home against the Baltimore Ravens that could determine the AFC North champion. There is no guarantee the Steelers will even reach the postseason, and navigating that slate without Watt significantly clouds their outlook.
Even if Pittsburgh does qualify for the playoffs, the possibility that Watt may not be available — or may return at less than full strength — looms as one of the most consequential storylines of their season.
For now, the Steelers wait, hoping for positive medical developments while bracing for life without the cornerstone of their defense.
