Star Pass Rusher Sidelined after Suffering Concussion-like Symptoms
Earlier this week, T.J. Watt, the dynamic pass rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers, reported experiencing concussion-like symptoms to the team’s medical staff, adding to the team’s mounting injury issues. As a result, the Steelers have placed the 29-year-old in the concussion protocol, following standard procedure for head injuries in the NFL.
Injury Sustained in Game against New England Patriots
The incident occurred during Thursday night’s game against the New England Patriots when Watt took an inadvertent knee to the face mask from Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott. Despite the blow, Watt initially remained on the field, displaying his resilience by returning to play after a brief period on the sideline. Throughout the game, he managed to record five tackles in 51 out of the team’s 57 defensive snaps. However, he failed to secure a sack for the third time in 13 games.
Further Injury Woes for Pittsburgh Steelers
Unfortunately for the Steelers, the injury concerns do not end with Watt. Alex Highsmith, who forms a formidable pass rush tandem with Watt, also suffered a concussion and missed a significant portion of the game against the Patriots. This adds to the already depleted linebacker corps of the Steelers, with players such as Kwon Alexander, Cole Holcomb, and Elandon Roberts already out for the year or playing through injuries.
Options Limited for Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers now face a challenge in the outside linebacker position, with limited options available due to the injuries. Currently, rookie Nick Herbig and veteran Markus Golden are the only players on the active roster with outside linebacker experience. This lack of depth may prove to be a significant hurdle for the Steelers as they navigate the remainder of the season.
Playoff Hopes Dampened
With the loss to the Patriots marking their second consecutive defeat, the Steelers’ playoff hopes have taken a hit. However, they have a brief respite before their next game against the surging Minnesota Vikings on December 16th. This break in the schedule will provide the team with a couple of extra days to address their injury concerns and regroup for the remaining games.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.