T.J. Watt, sidelined since a partial lung collapse after dry needling, is set to return for the Steelers’ crucial AFC North showdown against the Ravens — and he’s not just excited to play, he’s ready to make a statement.
After three games sidelined while recovering from a partially collapsed lung, Pittsburgh Steelers four-time All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt is on track to return for the team’s last guaranteed game, he confirmed Friday. He practiced in a limited fashion last week but did not ultimately return to play in the Steelers’ 13-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns.
After additional practice participation this week, Watt expects to play, he told reporters. “I feel pretty good, honestly. Not sure I could’ve said that a week ago, but I feel really good, really confident,” Watt said, per ESPN’s Brooke Pryor. “I’m excited to play.”
The Steelers host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night for a de facto AFC North title game. The winner will host a wild-card playoff game, while the loser is eliminated from the postseason race. Watt’s return isn’t just about filling a void — it’s about restoring the Steelers’ defensive identity and the momentum they’ve built over the past two months.
Watt has not played since undergoing surgery Dec. 11 to stabilize and repair a partially collapsed lung, his brother J.J. Watt tweeted on Dec. 12 as T.J. Watt was released from the hospital. Watt suffered a partially collapsed lung after a dry needling session at the Steelers’ facility. “Didn’t feel right,” T.J. Watt said Friday of the dry needling aftermath. “Shortly afterward, I was in a significant amount of pain and ended up going to the hospital, and as you guys saw, [had] surgery. Recovery was different because it was something I wasn’t used to. I’m very thankful for everybody … taking good care of me and helping guide this process back.”
“It’s been very unique. But I feel really good sitting here today.”
He said Friday he does not have hard feelings toward the organization but also will not be using dry needling in the imminent future. “I’m gonna take a break now for sure,” he said, per Pryor.
In the wake of Watt’s partial lung collapse, the American Physical Therapy Association released a statement to educate people about dry needling, its efficacy and its safety. Dry needling is a “skilled intervention that licensed physical therapists may use, where permitted by state law, to address neuromusculoskeletal pain and movement impairments,” the statement said. Practitioners insert a thin, solid needle through the skin “to stimulate underlying myofascial trigger points, muscular and connective tissue.”
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that he was increasingly optimistic that Watt would return this week. “We’ll work him up throughout the course of the week and let the amount of participation and the quality of participation be our guide in terms of whether or not he’s a participant,” Tomlin said. “Certainly, I am more optimistic this week than I have been in previous weeks as I stand here today.”
Tomlin continued his multiweek emphasis on differentiating between an “injury circumstance” determination and a “medical circumstance,” deeming Watt’s as the latter and thus requiring caution. “I’m open to utilizing him in any way that’s appropriate relative to his availability,” Tomlin said. “Practice participation certainly would be more comforting in terms of making a decision, given he’s coming back from a medical circumstance.”
Tomlin said he didn’t imagine Watt’s fitness “being a major concern” given Watt’s year-round consistent commitment to it. Since the Steelers selected him 30th overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, Watt has earned eight Pro Bowl berths and 2021 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors. Three times, he led the NFL in sacks — with 15 in 2020, 22.5 in 2021 and 19 in 2023. He led the league in forced fumbles in 2019 (eight) and 2024 (six), pacing defenders with tackles for loss in 2020 and 2021 (23, 21 respectively).
In 13 games this season, Watt has recorded 53 tackles, seven sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception.
“You always want a guy that has T.J.’s ability and the ability to impact the game the way he does,” defensive coordinator Teryl Austin said Thursday. “So, it’ll be great to have him back. You know, in what capacity we’ll find out, really not until Sunday. But it’ll be great to have him back. I would think he’ll only strengthen our group in how we play and all those things.”
The Game Isn’t Just About Watt — It’s About the Steelers’ Future
Watt’s return is more than a personal triumph — it’s a strategic lifeline for the Steelers. With the Ravens sitting at 11-3 and the Steelers at 8-6, this game is the final opportunity for Pittsburgh to secure a playoff spot. A win here not only keeps their playoff hopes alive but also validates the coaching staff’s patience and medical decisions during Watt’s recovery.
Without Watt, the Steelers’ defense has been inconsistent. His absence has been felt in every game — particularly in the team’s 13-6 loss to the Browns, where his presence would have likely altered the outcome. His ability to disrupt the pocket, force fumbles, and create turnovers is unmatched in the NFL. His return will not only boost the defense but also energize the entire locker room.
“Watt is the heartbeat of this defense,” said veteran linebacker Marcus Allen. “He’s the guy who makes the plays when it matters most. Losing him was a blow, but seeing him back on the field, even if it’s limited, gives us confidence that we can finish strong.”
What’s Next for Watt? A New Chapter in His Legacy
Watt’s return is not just about the game — it’s about his legacy. At 30, he’s already one of the most decorated linebackers in NFL history. His return to the field after a medically complex recovery will be a testament to his resilience and work ethic.
His decision to take a break from dry needling is a personal choice — one that reflects his commitment to his health and well-being. While some may question the safety of dry needling, Watt’s experience is a reminder that even the most skilled athletes can be vulnerable to unforeseen medical issues.
“I’m not here to make excuses,” Watt said. “I’m here to play. I’m here to win. And I’m here to prove to everyone that I’m still the same guy they’ve always known — relentless, driven, and ready to go.”
Why This Matters for the NFL
Watt’s return is also a broader story about the NFL’s evolving relationship with player health and safety. As more athletes begin to speak out about the risks of certain treatments — including dry needling — the league and teams are being forced to reconsider their protocols.
The American Physical Therapy Association’s statement on dry needling is a step in the right direction. It emphasizes the importance of education, regulation, and safety — all of which are critical in protecting athletes from harm.
“This isn’t just about T.J. Watt,” said Dr. Lisa Chen, a sports medicine specialist. “It’s about every athlete who’s been exposed to these treatments. We need to ensure that they’re being used safely and responsibly — and that players are fully informed of the risks.”
What to Expect on Sunday
Watt’s return will be a major storyline on Sunday. While his role may be limited at first, his presence will be felt immediately. His ability to read the game, disrupt the pocket, and create turnovers will be crucial for the Steelers’ chances of victory.
“I expect him to be a game-changer,” said Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson. “He’s the kind of player who can change the momentum of a game in an instant. I’m excited to see him back on the field.”
The Ravens, meanwhile, will be aware of Watt’s return. Lamar Jackson, who has been a force all season, will be under pressure to perform — especially if Watt is able to disrupt his rhythm. The Ravens’ offense will need to adjust to his presence — and that’s exactly what makes this game so compelling.
Final Thoughts
T.J. Watt’s return is more than just a game — it’s a statement. It’s a statement of resilience, of determination, and of the enduring spirit of the Pittsburgh Steelers. As he steps onto the field for the first time since his surgery, he’s not just playing for himself — he’s playing for his team, his fans, and his legacy.
And if he’s able to make a statement on
