Good news for Steelers: T.J. Watt update ahead of Ravens showdown
The Pittsburgh Steelers got some positive news on Tuesday ahead of their critical Week 18 finale against the Baltimore Ravens Sunday night.
The Pittsburgh Steelers host the Baltimore Ravens in prime time this Sunday with the AFC North and the final spot in the postseason on the line. They will take all the help they can get, and that may come in the form of linebacker T.J. Watt.
Mike Tomlin optimistic on T.J. Watt ahead of Steelers’ do-or-die Week 18
Heading into the winner-take-all Week 18 finale, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin offered his most encouraging update yet on Watt, whose availability could swing the AFC North title and a playoff berth. After weeks of uncertainty surrounding Watt’s health, Tomlin acknowledged Tuesday that his outlook has shifted.
“We’ll work him up over the course of the week and let the amount of participation and quality of participation be our guide,” Tomlin said. “I’m more optimistic than I’ve been in previous weeks.”
I can promise you know that dude TJ Watt will not miss Sunday’s game lmao https://t.co/WHgANJm6eb
— RAMEY (@HoodieRamey) December 30, 2025
That optimism couldn’t come at a more critical time. The Steelers entered December in control of the AFC North, but a late-season loss to the Cleveland Browns tightened the race and erased any margin for error. Now, Pittsburgh and Baltimore meet with everything on the line: win and claim the division and a playoff spot, or lose and the season is over.
Pittsburgh’s recent struggles have coincided with Watt’s absence. The All-Pro linebacker has been sidelined since early December after being hospitalized with a lung issue, a frightening development that forced the team to prioritize his long-term health.
The last time Watt suited up was December 7 against the Ravens, making a potential return Sunday all the more dramatic.
Even in a somewhat inconsistent season by his standards, Watt remains the engine of Pittsburgh’s defense. In limited action, he’s recorded seven sacks, three forced fumbles, an interception, and 22 tackles, consistently altering game plans when on the field.
Without him, the Steelers’ pass rush has struggled to close games, a problem that’s been magnified in high-leverage moments. Tomlin, however, made it clear the team won’t rush Watt back unless he’s truly ready.
Kickoff for Sunday night’s game between the Steelers and Ravens is set for 8:20 p.m. ET. You can follow along with our live text coverage of the game right here on AS USA.
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