T.J. Watt Return Timeline After Lung Injury: Will He Play Week 16?

T.J. Watt was ruled out for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Week 15 game after being hospitalized with a lung injury, but the team received encouraging news on his return timeline. The Steelers are hopeful the All-Pro edge rusher could be back as soon as Week 16.

The update came on Sunday, December 14, following confirmation that Watt would miss only his first game of the season. Pittsburgh hosts the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football without its defensive centerpiece.

Updated: December 14, 2025, 11:31 a.m. ET

T.J. Watt return timeline and major injury update

Watt suffered what the team described as a lung injury last week and was hospitalized as a precaution. He was released and ruled out for Week 15 due to the short recovery window and the need for rest.

According to reports from NFL Network insiders, the Steelers believe the injury does not threaten Watt’s season. The expectation inside the organization is that he could miss only one game.

Tom Pelissero reported that the turnaround was simply too fast for Watt to safely play in Week 15. However, the Steelers are hopeful he could return next Sunday against the Detroit Lions in Week 16.

Watt has been one of the NFL’s most productive defenders again in 2025. Through 13 games, he has recorded 53 tackles, seven sacks, one interception, seven pass deflections, and three forced fumbles.

Those numbers underline why Pittsburgh moved cautiously. The team prioritized long-term availability over a rushed return, especially with playoff positioning still in flux.

Head coach Mike Tomlin has not publicly set a firm return date. Team officials have emphasized daily evaluations and medical clearance before any final decision is made.

Image caption: Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt during the 2025 NFL season. Source: Getty Images. Alt text: Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt during game action.

What Watt’s absence means for Pittsburgh right now

Even a one-game absence creates challenges for the Steelers’ defense. Watt anchors the pass rush and frequently alters protection schemes before the snap.

Without him, Pittsburgh must rely on pressure by committee. Alex Highsmith and rotational linemen are expected to see expanded roles against Miami.

The timing is critical. The Steelers reclaimed first place in the AFC North with a Week 14 win over Baltimore, but the Ravens remain within striking distance.

Monday night’s matchup is not a formality. Miami enters Week 15 on a four-game winning streak, making discipline and pass rush containment essential.

If Watt returns in Week 16, it would stabilize the defense for the final stretch of the regular season. His availability could influence divisional outcomes and postseason seeding.

The T.J. Watt return timeline remains fluid, but all signs point toward a short absence. Pittsburgh’s cautious approach suggests confidence in his near-term return.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What injury did T.J. Watt suffer?

Watt suffered a lung injury and was hospitalized as a precaution. The Steelers ruled him out for Week 15 to allow proper recovery.

Q2: Why was T.J. Watt ruled out for Week 15?

The recovery window was too short after hospitalization. Team doctors recommended rest before any return to contact.

Q3: When could T.J. Watt return to the lineup?

The Steelers are hopeful Watt could return in Week 16 against the Detroit Lions. No final decision has been announced.

Q4: How important is Watt to the Steelers’ defense?

Watt leads the team in sacks and forced turnovers. He consistently draws extra blockers and changes offensive game plans.

Q5: Will the Steelers limit Watt’s snaps when he returns?

The team has not indicated any snap restriction. His workload will depend on medical clearance and game readiness.