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Pittsburgh Steelers star TJ Watt said he is excited to play against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday just three weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a partially collapsed lung.
Watt, 31, last played in Week 14 against the Ravens before being hospitalized later this week after suffering a collapsed lung while splashing at the Steelers’ practice complex.
“I feel really good. Not sure I could have said that a week ago,” the eight-time Pro Bowler said, according to ESPN. “I’m excited to play.”
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Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker TJ Watt warms up before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on Nov. 30, 2025. (Barry Reeger/Imagn Images)
The Steelers’ matchup against the Ravens is a win-or-go-home game, with the winner capturing the AFC North. The Steelers could have clinched the AFC North last week if the Ravens lost to the Green Bay Packers or if the Steelers had beaten the Cleveland Browns.
Instead, the Ravens beat the Packers 41-24 without an injured Lamar Jackson, and the Steelers lost to the Cleveland Browns 13-6, setting up Week 18’s matchup for the division title and a playoff spot.
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Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker TJ Watt watches the game against the Indianapolis Colts during the second half at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on Nov. 2, 2025. (Barry Reeger/Imagn Images)
Watts’ return will be a big boost to the Steelers’ defense. In 13 games this season, Watt has seven sacks, three forced fumbles and 53 total tackles. The former Wisconsin star has made the Pro Bowl each of the past seven seasons.
Watt was named the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year after recording 22½ sacks. The four-time first-team All-Pro has been the runner-up for the award two other seasons.
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For his career, Watt has recorded 115 sacks and 36 forced fumbles in 134 games and is constantly around the quarterback.
The Steelers and Ravens play at 8:20 PM ET on Sunday.
