At a Glance
- T.J. Watt could return for the AFC North title showdown with Baltimore.
- Coach Mike Tomlin says he’s “more optimistic” about Watt’s recovery.
- Steelers must win or tie the 8-8 Ravens to claim the division for the first time since 2020.
Why it matters: Watt’s presence could tip the balance in Pittsburgh’s high-stakes playoff race.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are gearing up for a do-or-die match against the Baltimore Ravens, with the fate of the AFC North hinging on the return of star edge rusher T.J. Watt. Coach Mike Tomlin expressed renewed confidence that Watt, who has missed the last three games after lung surgery, will be ready to play. If Watt returns, the Steelers could finally break a two-year title drought.
Watt’s Recovery Outlook
Tomlin noted that Watt’s extended downtime should not affect his conditioning. He said, > “I doubt that TJ is ever out of football shape or conditioning over the course of a 12-month calendar.” Watt, the 31-year-old, is expected to return.
Injury List & Potential Returns
Watt’s No. 90 could be back, but other key players remain sidelined. Darnell Washington is out indefinitely after a broken arm, while wide receiver Calvin Austin III, guard Isaac Seumalo, cornerback Brandon Echols, and cornerback James Pierre could return. The team also lost suspended wide receiver DK Metcalf, who will sit out this week.
- Darnell Washington – broken arm, out indefinitely
- Calvin Austin III – hamstring
- Isaac Seumalo – triceps
- Brandon Echols – groin
- James Pierre – calf
- DK Metcalf – suspension
Key Game Stakes
Pittsburgh needs a win or tie to secure the AFC North. The Steelers are 9-7, while the Ravens sit at 8-8. A victory would give the Steelers the division for the first time since 2020.
| Team | Record |
|---|---|
| Steelers | 9-7 |
| Ravens | 8-8 |
The Steelers’ offense struggled in Cleveland, posting only 160 net passing yards, and lost 13-6 to the Browns. Aaron Rodgers’ 148-yard performance and 29-yard completion were highlighted, but the team could not replicate that success.
Other Factors
The game could also be the final regular-season appearance for 42-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who said he expects Pittsburgh to recover and beat the Ravens. Rodgers, a four-time MVP, said last week he feels he is aging backward and remains healthy except for a broken left wrist that kept him out earlier. Rodgers said his 21st season could be his last.
Aaron Rodgers stated:
> “I expect Pittsburgh to recover and beat the Ravens.”
Coach Mike Tomlin said:
> “Man, there’s a lot of things that you could get frustrated about in our business. I’ve learned to kind of always move forward. My windshield is much bigger than my rearview.”
Key Takeaways
- T.J. Watt’s return could be decisive in Pittsburgh’s AFC North race.
- The Steelers’ record sits at 9-7, just one game ahead of the Ravens.
- Aaron Rodgers’ final regular-season game may add extra drama to the matchup.
With the division on the line and a star player potentially back, the Steelers face a pivotal night against the Ravens that could define their season.
