PITTSBURGH — The head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Mike Tomlin, remains hopeful that star linebacker T.J. Watt will be able to participate in the upcoming game against Baltimore despite dealing with an ankle injury.
Watt sustained a left ankle sprain during the latter part of the fourth quarter in a recent game, where the Steelers suffered a 27-13 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles. Following the game, he informed reporters that he underwent X-rays on his ankle, which returned negative results, and he is currently in a “wait and see” situation regarding his playing status.
Tomlin observed Watt moving around the team’s facilities on Monday morning without any significant difficulties. The 30-year-old linebacker was a standout player for the Steelers (10-4), who lead the AFC North, securing two sacks and forcing a fumble despite the loss. Tomlin defended his decision to keep Watt in the game while the Eagles were driving with a two-score advantage, emphasizing his commitment to winning.
Additionally, there may be a possibility that several players, including wide receiver George Pickens, safety DeShon Elliott, and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, could return to practice this week, all of whom are currently sidelined due to injuries.
The Steelers have struggled with their passing game during the two games that Pickens has been absent. Russell Wilson has averaged only 143 passing yards in those outings, which includes a season-low performance of 128 yards against Philadelphia.
