The Pittsburgh Steelers’ clash with the Cleveland Browns marked the third straight game that linebacker T.J. Watt has missed. Amid growing curiosity surrounding his injury status, an NFL insider has now shared an update on when the superstar pass rusher could return.
What Is the Latest Update on T.J. Watt’s Return?
The Steelers’ star pass rusher was hospitalized earlier this month in Week 15 after suffering a collapsed lung following a dry needling treatment. While the team and fans are eager to see him back on the field, Watt’s health has remained the top priority. He recently also underwent surgery to repair a partially collapsed lung.
Watt missed the Week 17 matchup against the Browns. However, according to NFL insider Tracy Wolfson of CBS Sports, his return will not occur until he completes a full week of practice. Wolfson also reported that Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin made it clear there was never a chance Watt would play on Sunday.
“T.J. Watt did make the trip to Cleveland,” Wolfson wrote on X. “Mike Tomlin said there was never a chance he would play this week, and that he will not play until he has a week of practice as a full participant. They are treating it differently than a typical injury situation.”
TJ Watt did make the trip the Cleveland. Mike Tomlin said there was never a chance he would play this week. And that he will not play until he has a week of practice as a full participant, They are treating it different than an injury situation. #steelers
— Tracy Wolfson (@tracywolfson) December 28, 2025
Watt is expected to return to the next meaningful game. Based on that timeline, he could potentially return next week against the Baltimore Ravens if the Steelers lose to the Browns on Sunday, which would make the Week 18 matchup crucial. If the Steelers win, his return could instead come during the playoffs.
Steelers Playoff Scenarios
The AFC North race between the Steelers and Ravens remains alive. Pittsburgh, with a 9–6 record, currently leads the division and has an 81.6% chance of making the postseason. Baltimore, sitting at 8-8, has an 18.4% chance, according to PFSN’s NFL Playoff Meter.
On Saturday, the Ravens defeated the Green Bay Packers to keep their playoff hopes alive. If the Steelers lose to the Browns today, fans could be treated to a massive divisional showdown in Week 18.
In that scenario, the Ravens and Steelers would meet in the final game of the regular season with the AFC North title on the line, an important matchup that would be difficult for Watt to miss. If that situation unfolds, a return to the field could be likely. For now, however, the Browns are battling hard to make that dream matchup a reality as they continue to dominate the first half at Huntington Bank Field.
