Pittsburgh Steelers edge rusher T.J. Watt participated in limited practice for the first time since undergoing surgery for a partially collapsed lung. His status remains unclear for Sunday's Week 17 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. Both teams released extensive injury reports on Wednesday, highlighting challenges ahead of the AFC North contest.
The Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6) hold a strong position in the AFC North and can clinch the division with a win over the Cleveland Browns or a Baltimore Ravens loss to the Green Bay Packers. However, injuries continue to test the team late in the season. Star pass rusher T.J. Watt, who leads the league in forced fumbles since 2017 with 36, returned to practice on a limited basis Wednesday. This marks his first session since surgery on December 12 to repair a partially collapsed lung caused by a dry needling treatment mishap two weeks prior.
Coach Mike Tomlin described Watt's participation as a positive step, though his availability for the 1 p.m. ET kickoff at Huntington Bank Field is uncertain. Fellow edge rusher Alex Highsmith praised the development, saying, "It's awesome to have him out there. Just seeing him back out in the field with us, he's getting better every single day."
Watt has recorded 53 tackles, seven sacks, three forced fumbles, and one interception in 13 games this season. The Steelers' injury report listed four players as non-participants: wide receiver Calvin Austin III (hamstring), cornerback Brandin Echols (groin), offensive tackle Troy Fautanu (personal), and defensive lineman Cam Heyward (rest). Limited participants included running back Jaylen Warren (hip), guard Isaac Seumalo (triceps), edge Nick Herbig (hamstring), cornerback James Pierre (calf), and quarterback Aaron Rodgers (wrist, full participation despite listing).
The Browns, out of playoff contention, face their own injury woes with 16 players on the report. Tight end David Njoku (knee) did not practice, joined by running back Quinshon Judkins on injured reserve after leg surgery. Limited players included offensive linemen Joel Bitonio (knee/rest), Wyatt Teller (calf), and Tevin Jenkins (shoulder); cornerback Denzel Ward (calf, expected to play); defensive tackle Mason Graham (rib); and quarterback Shedeur Sanders (right finger, full participant). Cleveland signed center Kendrick Green from the Buffalo Bills' practice squad for added depth.
Pittsburgh aims to extend a three-game win streak averaging 28 points per game, while the Browns seek to avoid further setbacks in a meaningless finale.
