The Pittsburgh Steelers are now 0-8 in games that star edge rusher, T.J. Watt does not play in since the reigning AP Defensive Player of the Year was drafted in 2017. The defensive side of the ball has noticeably had struggles since he tore his pectoral muscle at the end of regular in the team's regular season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. On top of the pec injury, he also recently underwent a minor knee surgery and that, paired with his original recovery from the Week 1 injury, is going to hold him out of game action until Week 10 according to Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
TJ Watt expected to return after the bye on Nov 13 against New Orleans, per team sources.
— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) October 9, 2022
Head Coach, Mike Tomlin was asked after the Steelers' embarrassing 38-3 loss to the Buffalo Bills about Watt's availability going forward and a timeline related to his potential return.
"T.J.'s on IR," Tomlin said. "When he's scheduled to come back, if it's close, we'll have more details. I'm not disputing the report, but I'm concerned about the guys that played today, were scheduled to play today and their readiness of what we did or did not do."
Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher, TJ Watt (#90) stretches during 2022 training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. | Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO
The Steelers certainly need Watt back, but after a 1-4 start and tough schedule ahead, the season may already be over come November. Overall, it is smart to take the safe approach in regards to his injury and confirm he is 100% healthy before getting back on the field.
What are your thoughts on the Watt's alleged return date? Let us know in the comments below!
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