The Pittsburgh Steelers had every reason to fear the worst after T.J. Watt's pursuit of Jalen Hurts ended tragically during their game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Watt, the star linebacker and defensive stalwart, was seen briefly hopping before collapsing to the turf late in the fourth quarter, clutching his left ankle. A highly anticipated cross-state matchup had already turned sour for the Steelers, who suffered a 27-13 loss to the Eagles.
Losing Watt for any extended stretch could resonate deeply through the Steelers roster, especially as they strive to secure their position within the AFC North, with looming challenges against divisional rivals. After the game, Watt, sporting his recognizable intensity, faced reporters and acknowledged he was currently in "wait-and-see" mode concerning his recovery. At 30 years old and boasting accolades including the former defensive player of the year title, Watt remained hopeful, stating his rolled ankle didn't feel serious.
Despite Watt leading the Steelers' defense with 11.5 sacks this season, his absence on Sunday was palpable. The Steelers struggled to apply pressure on Hurts, allowing wide receivers DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown to each exceed 100 yards receiving. Following the defeat, Watt expressed disappointment, highlighting, "We need to find ways to get off the field. We’ve been pretty good all year long on three-and-outs and getting off the field on third downs. We weren’t good enough today. There were a lot of long, sustained drives." This sentiment encapsulated the intensity of competition against the Eagles and the stakes leading up to the playoffs.
Despite the loss, the Steelers (10-4) maintained their playoff aspirations, having clinched a spot due to losses by both Indianapolis and Miami. Yet, during the conferences, Watt insisted on the true weight of the moment—a championship mentality overshadowed by physical concerns. "No consolation," he affirmed solemnly, acknowledging the mixed feelings of celebrating the playoff berth amid potential personal health worries.
Next on the schedule for the Steelers is the Baltimore Ravens, just one game behind them. The high-stakes rivalry is sure to fuel excitement, but the team's outlook would vastly improve if Watt can take the field. Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson commented on the upcoming challenge, noting, "It’s our first goal, to win the division. We’ve got to go take it. Got to go find a way on the road in Baltimore, which we know is going to be a great football game." That sentiment reverberated through the locker room, even as some players, including his fellow quarterback Justin Fields, also dealt with injuries.
Wilson’s performance against the Eagles was lackluster, tossing for just 128 yards, marking his season-low. This was compounded by his errant pitch to Najee Harris, which allowed the Eagles to capitalize and extend their lead. Russell noted the absence of standout receiver George Pickens, who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury and leads the team with 55 receptions and 850 yards receiving, underscoring their struggles without him. “Having George Pickens out there on the field is a good thing for the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Wilson stated. "But either way, we still have to respond and find ways to make plays."
Compounding matters, the Steelers also saw backup quarterback Justin Fields take a hard hit, and cornerback Donte Jackson suffered from back pain as well. The flurry of injuries during the game paints a bleak picture for Pittsburgh's hoped-for playoff run. Watt, who exited with two sacks, seven tackles, and one forced fumble, has left his teammates anxious. It is apparent the Steelers' defense heavily relies on Watt’s game-breaking ability. Should he miss future games, the team must brace for the impact.
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin remarked on the loss but urged restraint, stating, "It is a loss. I mean, let’s not get dramatic," acknowledging the need to maintain perspective. Watt's injury turned what many deemed merely disappointing—a tough loss—into something significantly more challenging to navigate as the playoffs approach. With games against Kansas City and Cincinnati on the horizon, the stakes have never been higher.
While Watt will await updates and recovery news, the Steelers face the distressing reality of needing to not only recuperate but also rise to the occasion without their defensive anchor. The coming week will define their approach, not only against the Ravens but throughout the playoff race—one where every game counts and the hope rests firmly on the shoulders of those apt to step up to the plate.
For the Steelers, the aim is clear: win the division and seize every opportunity. Whether they achieve it may hinge significantly on the status of T.J. Watt and how quickly he can return to his game-wrecking form.
