Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt was discharged Friday after successful surgery for a partially collapsed lung from a Dec. 10 dry needling treatment. Now resting at home and out for Week 15 vs. Miami, he faces an $11,593 NFL fine for a late hit and potential liability issues from the procedure.
Updating the story of T.J. Watt's pneumothorax: After completing a lifting workout and undergoing dry needling at the Steelers' South Side facility on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, the star outside linebacker developed severe lung pain. Evaluated by team doctors, he was hospitalized, underwent surgery Thursday to repair the lung, and was released Friday, Dec. 12, to rest at home.
Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed Watt will miss Monday's Week 15 game against the Dolphins. Recovery is progressing well, with medical analysis suggesting a possible return in Week 16 against the Detroit Lions.
The iatrogenic injury has sparked liability concerns. Former NFL executive Andrew Brandt highlighted pneumothorax risks from chest-area needling, noting potential differences if done by a team employee versus an outside contractor. The NFL Players Association is in contact with Watt.
Separately, Watt was fined $11,593 by the NFL—his first this season—for unnecessary roughness on Ravens RB Derrick Henry late in Week 14's 27-22 win. The hit involved jumping on a pile while Henry was up, though some call it minor.
Prior to the injury, Watt had 53 tackles, seven sacks, seven passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and one interception in 13 games.