T.J. Watt’s weekend goes from bad to worse after NFL punishes Steelers star for controversial hit on Ravens RB Derrick Henry
It’s been a rough couple of days for T.J. Watt.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are banking on freezing cold temperatures (well below freezing) to slow down a red-hot Miami Dolphins team on Monday night. One of the biggest games of the weekend, with playoff stakes on the line for both squads. It’s another must-win.
But the Steelers will be without their best player. The $41 million man, T.J. Watt, had his lung punctured at the team facility earlier this week, and he is out for Monday night and potentially longer. That didn’t stop the NFL from adding insult to injury, however.
NFL fines T.J. Watt for late hit on Derrick Henry
I’m not exactly sure how that penalty was late or unnecessary, but the NFL fined Watt over $11,000. Now that shouldn’t hurt too badly, given his salary, but it’s the principle of the situation.
“Players are notified of violations and may appeal any ruling. Cases are heard by appeals officers and former NFL players, such as Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, or Jordy Nelson, who are jointly appointed and paid by the NFL/NFLPA. The decisions made are final and binding.
“The fines collected are donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation to support Legends in need and the NFL Foundation to further support the health, safety and wellness of athletes across all levels, including youth football and the communities that support the game.” – Gameday Operations
When will T.J. Watt be back?
“Steelers star T.J. Watt is expected to play again this season following surgery on his partially collapsed lung after a dry needling treatment, sources say,” wrote Ian Rapoport of NFL Network via Instagram on Friday. “Sometimes this heals on its own. This didn’t, so surgery was necessary. A scary 24 hours. But full recovery is expected.”
The Steelers are 1-11 all-time (playoffs included) when Watt doesn’t play. He is, in essence, the totality of their scheme and game plan. Luckily for Pittsburgh, the team should be well-equipped to handle this loss, with Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, and Jack Sawyer all healthy for Monday night.
How did T.J. Watt suffer a punctured lung?
“Dry needling is a treatment many, many players do at the team facility without issue to alleviate general soreness,” added Rapoport. “Following one treatment, Watt was left in extreme pain, and doctors quickly sent him to the hospital. A harrowing experience. But minor surgery & full recovery.”
Dry needling is a supercharged form of acupuncture. It’s designed to be another way of recovery, but as seen in this case, when not administered properly, it can result in serious consequences. The good news is that Watt seems to have skirted major repercussions and could be back this season.
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