J.J. Watt, the renowned defensive end, expressed deep concern over his younger brother T.J. Watt’s knee injury during the Pittsburgh Steelers’ recent 17–10 victory against the Baltimore Ravens. J.J. Watt shared his sentiments on X, stating that the situation was incredibly painful and devastating. Although T.J. Watt’s injury appeared severe initially, recent reports suggest it may not be as serious as initially feared. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, T.J. Watt is believed to have suffered a Grade 3 MCL sprain, indicating a potential absence of multiple weeks if the Steelers make it to the playoffs.
Based on initial tests, #Steelers potential DPOY TJ Watt is believed to have suffered a Grade 3 MCL sprain, sources said. He’ll have further tests, but that’s a multi-week injury.
Better than an ACL tear. But not good if PIT makes the playoffs. pic.twitter.com/vG6YshWUKm
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 7, 2024
In spite of T.J. Watt’s eagerness to return to the game, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Pittsburgh coaching staff wisely kept him sidelined, considering the challenging weather conditions and poor state of the playing field. T.J. Watt, having secured his 19th sack of the season that night, is a strong contender for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. He and his older brother J.J. are now the only players in NFL history to achieve multiple seasons with 19 or more sacks in their careers.
TJ Watt is down… pic.twitter.com/Bu7HDTrBbN
— Mr Matthew CFB (@MrMatthew_CFB) January 6, 2024
Although the Steelers finished the regular season with a 10–7 record, their playoff spot is not yet secure. Their postseason fate depends on several outcomes: a Miami Dolphins victory over the Buffalo Bills, a Jacksonville Jaguars loss to the Tennessee Titans, or a tie in the clash between the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans.