Steelers face mounting injury concerns as Watt’s return remains in limbo
The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged victorious from their Week 15 clash with the Miami Dolphins, improving their record to 8-6 and maintaining their grip on the AFC North lead. However, the win came at a cost, as the team left the field grappling with a series of injuries.
Watt’s absence continues to loom large
T.J. Watt, the team’s star linebacker, was sidelined for the matchup after undergoing lung surgery earlier in the week. In his absence, the Steelers turned to Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig to anchor the outside linebacker positions, with Jack Sawyer stepping in as the backup. Unfortunately, the challenges compounded when Herbig was forced out of the game with a hamstring injury, managing just one tackle before his exit.
Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed the severity of Herbig’s situation post-game, stating that the team would closely monitor his recovery throughout the week. As the Steelers prepare for their upcoming contest against the Detroit Lions, they face the added pressure of a shortened week with only one day to recuperate before practice begins.
A defensive reshuffle ahead of Week 16
The uncertainty surrounding Watt’s potential return adds further complexity to the Steelers’ defensive strategy. Reports are mixed regarding his availability for Week 16. While some sources express optimism that Watt could make a swift comeback, others caution that the timeline may be too tight for him to return to action.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero noted, “The turnaround was just too quick for Watt to play this week. He needed to rest, but the Steelers are hopeful that Watt potentially could miss only one game. He could be back next Sunday against the Lions.” Meanwhile, ESPN’s Adam Schefter echoed similar sentiments, stating, “We’ll see if he’s able to come back in the next week. That’s gonna be challenging too.”
A spotlight on Sawyer
With Herbig sidelined, attention turns to Sawyer, who will likely be thrust into a more significant role. The defensive unit will need to rally as they face a formidable opponent in Detroit, emphasizing the importance of depth and resilience in the face of adversity. The Steelers’ upcoming practices will be crucial in assessing their lineup and preparing for the challenges ahead, as they navigate the complexities of their injury crisis.
