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The brother of Pittsburgh Steelers star linebacker TJ Watt, former NFL star JJ Watt, wrote Friday that his brother underwent successful surgery to stabilize and repair a partially collapsed lung he suffered Wednesday.
JJ wrote to X that his brother suffered a collapsed lung after dry needling at the Steelers’ practice complex.
The former Houston Texans star said his brother will be released from the hospital on Friday and his recovery time has not yet been determined.
“He and his family are very grateful for everyone’s kind words and well wishes,” JJ said in his post.
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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)
TJ Watt was hospitalized after experiencing discomfort in his lung, the team announced Thursday.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin ruled Watt out for the team’s game against the Miami Dolphins on Monday. Watt has played every game this season for the Steelers and losing him is a huge blow.
The Steelers, who moved into sole possession of first place in the AFC North with their 27-22 win over the Baltimore Ravens last week, are 7-6 and in contention for a playoff spot. The 31-year-old is a big part of the team’s defense.
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Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker TJ Watt stands on the field before a game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts on September 21, 2025. (Brian Fluharty/Imagn Images)
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 last 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 in two other seasons.
In his career, Watt has recorded 115 sacks and 36 forced fumbles in 134 games and is constantly around the quarterback.
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The Dolphins, who have won their last four games, are also in the hunt for a playoff spot. They are 6-7 on the season after a slow start and are eyeing a wild-card berth because they cannot mathematically catch the New England Patriots (11-2) to win the AFC East.
The Steelers and Dolphins play in a crucial AFC game at 8:15 PM ET on Monday.
