Pittsburgh Steelers star defender to forego one of the league's greatest honors after announcing previously unknown injury
T.J. Watt is on the Mt. Rushmore of the Pittsburgh Steelers. One of the best to ever put on the Black and Gold, Watt was named to his 7th Pro Bowl earlier this year, putting him within striking range of a Steelers record. But when it comes to attending the event in Orlando, Florida next […]
T.J. Watt is on the Mt. Rushmore of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
One of the best to ever put on the Black and Gold, Watt was named to his 7th Pro Bowl earlier this year, putting him within striking range of a Steelers record.
But when it comes to attending the event in Orlando, Florida next week, Watt will be playing hooky…
T.J. Watt missing Pro Bowl due to injury
Watt didn't miss any games down the stretch of the season and into the playoffs despite suffering a low ankle injury. He was a full participant in all practices to end the season, but he wasn't the same player that Steelers fans were used to, as he couldn't record a sack over the last month of the 2024-2025 season.
It should be noted that Watt is also expecting his first child soon, which could obviously be a major factor in deciding to sit out what is essentially a vacation for players.
"You have to put two guys on this man," said former Steelers and Hall of Fame Coach Bill Cowher when watt was announced as a Pro Bowler for the 7th time. "You have to throw some screens early, some draws early just to slow him down and give him something to think about. He can wreak havoc in a game. He is that type of player…
"…He is a defensive player of the year candidate. He is a guy that can change a game. He is a first-ballot Hall of Fame player. Those are guys you have to game plan for."
But while Watt may miss the Pro Bowl, he's once again a nominee for the highest honor a defensive player can receive…
Linebacker T.J. Watt is one of five finalists for the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year.
Watt has earned multiple honors already this postseason, including being named second team AP All-Pro and All-NFL by the Pro Football Writers of America, as well as voted as a starter for the Pro Bowl Games, although he won't take part due to injury.
– Teresa Varley, Steelers
But while the Steelers may have lost one representative in Orlando, it all evens out following a similar situation with the New England Patriots and a team captain for the Steelers.
