Steelers star TJ Watt goes down with injury, grabs at left knee

Even more-so than Ben Roethlisberger, T.J Watt may be the most important player on the Pittsburgh Steelers. He’s been everything the team could’ve wanted and more from day one — evolving into arguably the best defensive player in the NFL.

After carrying the Steelers on his back on multiple occasions, Pittsburgh is holding their breath right now. Watt left today’s game against the Detroit Lions with an injury, grabbing at his knee.

“Oh no, oh no. TJ Watt sacks Jared Goff and immediately grabbed for his knee,” tweeted NFL Network’s Aditi Kinkhabwala. “The#Steelers medical staff goes hustling out to the field.”

Kinkhabwala added: “TJ Watt is in the blue medical tent and #Steelers DL coach Karl Dunbar just poked his head in there. Looks like he was fairly quickly reassured. Hopefully.”

T.J. Watt is a superstar — and perhaps will be the face of the Steelers franchise once Roethlisberger retires. While Roethlisberger will likely be back next weekend from COVID, a lingering injury would be devastating for Watt.

Fortunately, Kinkhabwala spotted Watt walking around on the sidelines following his trip to the tent.

“And now Cam Heyward goes to check on TJ Watt in the blue medical tent. TJ walks out, squats a few times, and is carrying his helmet. Takes his place on the bench next to the defense. OK. Looks just like a close call for the Steelers superstar pass rusher,” tweeted Kinkhabwala.

Later, ESPN’s Adam Schefter stated that Watt is questionable to return, as the star defender actually suffered a hip injury.

“Steelers’ OLB T.J. Watt questionable to return due to a hip injury,” tweeted Schefter.

Pittsburgh Steelers Injury Woes

The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking to continue their winning ways this week. Even though they face a Detroit Lions team who hasn’t won yet this season, the Steelers are facing an uphill climb.

A huge curveball was thrown their way on Saturday. In what may be his swan song of a season, Ben Roethlisberger was placed on the COVID-19 list.

“Ben Roethlisberger is OUT on Sunday after being placed on the COVID-19 list,” reported ESPN’s Field Yates on Saturday. “The Steelers will now likely turn to quarterback Mason Rudolph as their starter against the Lions on Sunday.”

Moreover, Detroit is currently 0-8 on the season. However, the Lions will be looking to take advantage of the Steelers’ misfortune. With Mason Rudolph starting the game, the Steelers will look to improve on their 5-3 record — hoping to tie the division-leading Baltimore Ravens.

In the past, Rudolph has seen decent playing time despite being Roethlisberger’s backup. Over the last two seasons, Rudolph has entered 15 games — starting nine. As starter, Rudolph is 5-4 for his career — accumulating 15 touchdowns and 10 interceptions over that time.