It was an absolute disaster for TJ Watt and the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday Night Football. The Steelers fell behind 21-3 in the first half and were unable to catch up against the New England Patriots, a club that allows the fewest points to be scored per game. News of injuries is already emerging from the game, including Watt’s entry into the concussion protocol after the defeat. It’s important to remember that TJ Watt played 91% of Pittsburgh’s defensive snaps on the field.
The injury to Watt happened on the opening play of the game. It should be looked into why the Pittsburgh Steelers permitted him to return, wearing a tinted visor—a hint that something wasn’t quite right, in retrospect.
Thankfully, Watt has more time to heal, so before Pittsburgh’s next game, he might be cleared to play again. Watt would need the approval of a separate neurologist. The Steelers’ next game, which has significant AFC playoff implications, is against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are no strangers to defensive brilliance, and Watt is carving out a lasting legacy for himself in Steelers history. In his 100 games with the AFC squad, which concluded on Thursday, the pass rusher has racked up 91.5 sacks. Three First-Team All-Pro honors, a Defensive Player of the Year title, and a share of the NFL single-season sack record (in just 15 games) are just a few of his accomplishments.
Watt hasn’t gotten the same level of attention in 2023 as he usually does. TJ Watt has quietly finished the season with 14.0 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, an interception, and a touchdown. He must play out the season if the Pittsburgh Steelers are to make a postseason comeback. especially considering that the offense only scores 16.2 points a contest.
