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T.J. Watt injury update: Steelers release statement after star defender hospitalized

by: Alex Byington12/11/25_AlexByington

Pittsburgh Steelers superstar linebacker T.J. Watt is currently being evaluated for a lung issue in a local Pittsburgh-area hospital, a Steelers spokesperson announced in a statement Thursday. Watt experienced discomfort during a treatment session at the team facility on Wednesday and the four-time All-Pro has been hospitalized ever since, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Due to his hospitalization, Watt is not expected to attend Thursday’s practice and his status for Monday night’s game vs. Miami “is in question,” per team spokesperson Burt Lauten. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is expected to address the situation with Watt “at the appropriate time.”

Watt is a nine-year NFL pro and has played in all 13 of the Steelers’ games this season, tallying 53 tackles, seven sacks and an interception. He’s recently dealt with a nagging toe injury, but hasn’t missed any significant time this season.

Any significant absence for Watt could be devastating for Pittsburgh (7-6), which is currently in the midst of a tight AFC North title race. The Steelers host Miami on Monday night, with kickoff set for 8:15 p.m. ET.

Last year, Watt recorded 11.5 sacks and 19 tackles for loss in 17 regular-season games. He was named to a seventh consecutive Pro Bowl and the All-Pro Second Team for the second time in his career.

Watt has been with the Steelers his entire career, which spans nine seasons, including 2025. He recently signed a massive three-year, $123 million contract that included $108 million fully guaranteed upon signing.

JJ Watt congratulates TJ Watt live after Steelers LB breaks brother’s sack record

TJ Watt surpassed his older brother, JJ, in career sacks on Nov. 23 against the Chicago Bears. Watt was credited with sacking QB Caleb Williams, forcing a fumble in the end zone — while his older brother was on the call for CBS.

The Steelers’ star defender recorded his 115th career sack on the play. JJ Watt, who finished his career with 114.5 total sacks, reacted to his brother’s massive career milestone in real time live on air.

“If he’s going to pass my record, that’s one hell of a way to do it,” JJ Watt said. “With a strip-sack causing a touchdown. Good for you, TJ.”

The play was good for TJ Watt’s seventh sack of the season and third forced fumble. He’s now 26th all-time on the NFL sack leaderboard. He’s behind two active players — Myles Garrett (Cleveland Browns) and Calais Campbell (Arizona Cardinals). Garrett entered this week with 117.5 career sacks, while Campbell has 115.5.

— On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this report.