This post was originally published on this site.
T.J. Watt has been one of the best edge rushers in recent NFL memory, having racked up multiple accolades in eight full seasons so far. However, his latest injury may be the most debilitating of his career.
On Thursday, the Pittsburgh Steeler was hospitalized with lung discomfort, with organizational spokesperson Burt Lauten then confirming that he had not practiced because of it. When asked about the injury, coach Mike Tomlin said:
Thanks for the submission!
“He and I communicated last night; he was comfortable.”
•
Later, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the injury had occurred while he was being treated at the team facility the day prior.
Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our NFL Playoff Predictor for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!
And fans started making comparisons to New York Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who also suffered a ruptured lung in 2020, when he was a Los Angeles Charger:
As a result, Watt’s availability for the Steelers’ game against the Miami Dolphins on Monday is in doubt. However, quarterback Aaron Rodgers assured that he would be back as soon as he could:
“I haven’t talked to T.J., but I would never bet against anybody in the Watt family of being able to deal with something small or large and getting back on the field as quickly as possible.”
Analyst reveals surprise biggest beneficiary of T.J. Watt’s absence for Steelers-Dolphins game
One might assume that the Dolphin who stands to benefit the most if T.J. Watt is not on the field is Tua Tagovailoa. The quarterback has eaten his fair share of sacks and other hits, and having to deal with one less monstrous pass rusher will help in his passing exploits.
But for The Sporting News’ Jim Racalto, it will actually be running back De’Von Achane. The first-time thousand-yarder is expected to play after narrowly avoiding being diagnosed with a rib fracture, and without Watt, his and the Dolphins’ propensity to run the perimeter may have just gotten easier against a defense that has allowed over 200 rushing yards in consecutive games:
“Watt isn’t just a premier pass rusher—he’s also a dominant edge setter and run defender, often forcing offenses away from the perimeter. … Achane’s explosiveness, combined with Miami’s perimeter running game and strategic commitment to the ground attack, could put Pittsburgh’s defense in a tough spot before adjustments can be made.”
Kickoff for that game is at 8:15 pm ET on ESPN/ABC.
Edited by Andre Castillo
