T.J. Watt practices for 1st time since lung injury

PITTSBURGH — Steelers standout defensive player T.J. Watt returned to practice on Wednesday, two weeks after suffering a partially punctured lung during a dry needling procedure and subsequent corrective surgery.

Watt was designated as a limited participant and engaged in individual drills with the defense during his first practice after missing the last two games.

«It’s fantastic to see him out there,» outside linebacker Alex Highsmith remarked. «Just having him back on the field with us, he’s improving daily, so it’s great to have him back out there as a leader for our group. Excited to see how he keeps progressing.»

A Christmas Eve surprise for the Steelers: TJ Watt is practicing today pic.twitter.com/qDsovP2AEf

— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) December 24, 2025

Watt seemed deliberate in avoiding practicing pass rush techniques on the tackling dummies, which would necessitate raising his arms more for explosive movements.

TJ Watt refrained from executing pass rush moves with the tackling dummies, focusing instead on cardio with the defensive line during that segment of practice pic.twitter.com/20TkBWG0gC

— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) December 24, 2025

«T.J.’s one of our key leaders, so having him here is invaluable,» quarterback Aaron Rodgers said following Wednesday’s session. «Unclear on what his game status will be, but his presence is definitely beneficial for our team.»

Coach Mike Tomlin stated on Tuesday that Watt’s availability for Sunday’s game in Cleveland, where the Steelers have a chance to secure the AFC North title and a playoff spot, remains uncertain. However, he expressed confidence that Watt has recovered well from the surgery.

«That’s a reasonable assessment, but again, I’ll defer to him regarding his health,» Tomlin added, noting that he expects Watt will discuss this topic soon. «For me, speaking on matters of injury is one thing; discussing medical aspects is another. That’s part of why I’ve been somewhat cautious, in addition to my limited knowledge on the subject.»

In addition to Watt’s return to practice, fellow defensive player Nick Herbig also participated as a limited participant following his absence in the Lions game due to a hamstring issue.