Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt spoke Friday for the first time about the dry needling mishap that caused his collapsed lung, calling the incident an unexpected and rare complication from a treatment he had used for years. The injury occurred at the team facility and forced him into a three-game absence during a critical stretch of the Steelers’ playoff push.
T.J. Watt Addresses Injury As Steelers Brace for Win-or-Go-Home Showdown
Watt said the accident surprised him because he had undergone dry needling many times without issue. He described the mishap as a “fluke” and said he had been using the therapy for a long time before the unexpected complication.
Watt added that all of his dry needling is done through the Steelers and that he does not work with any outside providers. He also stated that he has no hard feelings toward the organization following the mishap.
TJ Watt said he’d done dry needling before, but asked if he’s going to keep doing it, he kind of laughs: “I’m gonna take a break now for sure.”
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) January 2, 2026
The injury kept Watt sidelined for matchups against the Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, and Cleveland Browns. The Steelers went 2-1 in his absence to stay alive in the AFC North race entering Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Baltimore Ravens. According to PFSN’s NFL Football Playoff Meter, Pittsburgh enters the weekend with a 52.6 percent chance to reach the postseason compared to 47.4 percent for Baltimore.
Franchise Direction Hangs in the Balance
The stakes extend beyond the standings. The outcome could influence the long-term direction of the franchise, including the futures of head coach Mike Tomlin and quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Tomlin has guided Pittsburgh to consistent winning seasons but faces mounting pressure to deliver postseason results. Rodgers, acquired in free agency last offseason, has battled injuries and inconsistency, leaving questions about whether the organization will commit to him beyond this year.
The franchise has invested heavily in both men, and a loss to Baltimore could accelerate conversations about structural changes, roster direction, and how aggressively the Steelers want to reshape their offense moving forward.
Now, with the division and a playoff berth on the line, Watt said he feels ready to return. “I feel really good. Not sure that I could’ve said that a week ago. … I’m excited to play.”
The Steelers expect Watt’s return to provide an emotional and on‑field lift as they enter their most consequential game of the season. Pittsburgh has leaned on its defense all year, and Watt’s presence reinforces that identity as the team attempts to extend its season and stabilize its future.
