Pittsburgh, PA — Pittsburgh Steelers star linebacker TJ Watt was hospitalized Wednesday evening after experiencing lung discomfort during practice at the team facility, the team confirmed. The injury raises concerns about his availability for the team’s Week 15 game against the Miami Dolphins on Monday night.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin addressed the situation on Thursday, revealing that Watt was sent to the hospital for further testing. While Tomlin confirmed that Watt’s condition is not related to an injury sustained during the Week 14 game, the exact onset of the symptoms remains unclear. The coach said Watt’s status for the Dolphins game will be determined following the results of Thursday’s tests.
Mike Tomlin on the TJ Watt situation:
Tomlin spoke with Watt on Wednesday evening and assured the public that the 31-year-old pass rusher was “comfortable” despite being hospitalized. Tomlin emphasized that Watt did not come out of the Week 14 game with any lingering issues. The cause of Watt’s lung problems is still under investigation and Tomlin hoped more clarity would emerge after Thursday’s test.
In a tweet, The Athletic reporter Mike DeFabo shared an update that Watt was hospitalized overnight. The Steelers’ official Twitter account further confirmed that Watt was being monitored and treated after feeling discomfort during treatment at the facility. ESPN’s Adam Schefter also reported that Watt had been in the hospital since Wednesday, though details regarding the timing and progression of his symptoms remain unclear.
Impact on Steelers’ playoff push
Watt, one of the NFL’s top defensive players, has been a cornerstone of the Steelers’ defense this season. He has played in all 13 games so far, recording 53 tackles and 7 sacks. The Steelers, currently leading the AFC North with a 7-6 record, are in a tight race with the 6-7 Baltimore Ravens, who are hot on their heels.
If Watt misses any time, his absence could significantly impact the Steelers’ defense, which is vital to their playoff aspirations. Watt, known for his tireless pass rushing and leadership on the field, played a key role in the Steelers’ success in recent years, including earning a first-team All-Pro selection in 2023 after leading the NFL with 19 sacks.
Watt’s health and contract extension
Watt has struggled with injuries in the past but has remained relatively healthy the past few seasons. Before 2025, he played in 17 games in consecutive years and earned Pro Bowl selection in both seasons. The Steelers showed their confidence in Watt by extending his contract in July with a three-year deal worth $123 million, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history at the time. While that record has since been broken by Aiden Hutchinson of the Detroit Lions, Watt’s contract remains a testament to his value to the team.
looking ahead:
The Steelers face the Miami Dolphins in Week 15, followed by important matchups against the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns as they look to secure the AFC North and their position in the playoffs. With Watt’s availability uncertain, the Steelers defense will need to step up in his absence if necessary.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation evolves and the Steelers prepare for the remainder of their season.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
