Optimism Grows for TJ Watt's Recovery Timeline

Story by Yinzer Crazy Contributor Ryan Fiore

As R.E.M. once sang, “it’s the end of the world as we know it.” Or at least it looked like that for Steelers nation.

During the last few seconds of the first game of the regular season, All-Pro linebacker TJ Watt suffered an injury to his left pectoral as he attempted to sack Bengals QB Joe Burrow. Visibly upset, Watt headed to the locker room moments later, leaning on a Steelers medical personnel. Unfortunately, a fully torn pec would end Watt’s season. 

However, it was reported last night by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport (@rapsheet), that the likely scenario is that Watt doesn't need surgery, which puts his recovery timeline around 6 weeks.

Watt’s success with the defense and long list of achievements is nothing new to Steelers Nation, as the 27-year-old was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year for the 2021 season, in addition to having previously won the Butkus Award in 2020 and the Deacon Jones Award in 2020 and 2021. Watt has also been elected to the Pro Bowl 4 times and co-led the NFL in forced fumbles in 2019. Watt tied former New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan’s 2001 regular season sack record of 22.5 during the 2021 regular season. 

It is clear that the loss would come as a huge blow for the Steelers, as Watt is a major key in the defense’s success. The Steelers defense recorded 7 sacks, 4 interceptions (one of which was returned for a pick 6), and a forced fumble against the Cincinnati offense. Watt recorded 1 of the 7 sacks and 1 of the 4 interceptions. 

Fans are also optimistic that Watt could return sooner than later, because they know the type of iron man he has become.

It was also announced that Watt would seek additional medical opinions following a medical scan Monday afternoon. 

J.J. Watt, Arizona Cardinals defensive end and T.J.'s brother, suffered a pec injury while playing with the Houston Texans in October 2019, but was able to return in January 2020.

Let's hope strong genetics continues to run in the family.