Steelers' TJ Watt's 2025 Season Likely Over As Trustworthy Doctor Drops Brutal Update

The Pittsburgh Steelers superstar pass rusher TJ Watt got some scary news on Wednesday while receiving routine treatment. Watt suffered a partially collapsed lung after a dry needling session at the team facility, an unexpected complication that required immediate attention. He underwent successful surgery on Thursday, December 12, 2025, to repair the lung. His brother, JJ Watt, confirmed that TJ was recovering well, was released from the hospital on Friday, and, while unlikely to play in Monday’s game, is not expected to suffer a season-ending injury.

Watt will miss some time as he continues his recovery. The situation highlights the unpredictable nature of injuries, even during routine treatments, and underscores the mental and physical resilience required to return to peak performance at the highest level.

However, the optimism took a sobering turn when trustworthy sports doctor Brian Sutterer offered a more cautious update on Watt’s potential return for the 2025 season. Sutterer noted that while the surgery was successful, Watt’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, and rushing back too quickly could risk further complications. The Steelers and their fans are left awaiting more concrete news on Watt’s status as they monitor his recovery closely.

"So it was from dry needling [sad face emoji]. This is NOT the same as [Tyrod] Taylor," Sutterer said while speaking to his 58.9k social media followers on Friday. "Same end result, just a different way of causing the injury. I will be shocked if he comes back this year as someone who has been through this surgery personally. You have a chest tube for multiple days, feel like you got hit by a truck, and your fitness certainly does not come back in a week or two."

The Steelers are getting ready to face off against the Miami Dolphins in Week 15 of the 2025 season. Following their 27-22 win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 14, the Steelers improved to 7-6 and reclaimed first place in the AFC North. As they prepare to take on one of the NFL’s best rushing offenses in Miami, they will have to do so without Watt. He is expected to miss at least a month, though reports suggest he could return later in the 2025 season. However, trustworthy sports doctor Sutterer warned that it would be a miracle to see Watt back on the field this year.

Watt’s absence could extend into the playoffs, though a full recovery might still allow him to return if his rehab continues smoothly. While many pundits remain optimistic about his eventual return, the caution from a respected medical professional adds a note of concern. 

Steelers fans, above all, are focused on Watt’s health, knowing that his long-term well-being is more important than any single game.

Steelers Have Been Horrible In The Past Without TJ Watt

Without Watt, the Steelers’ defense will face a significant challenge. They will have to rely heavily on Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, and rookie Jack Sawyer while Watt recovers. Losing their superstar pass rusher is a major blow, but Pittsburgh’s defense will need to step up to maintain their position atop the AFC North and continue their push toward the postseason.

Watt’s recovery will be the storyline to watch as the Steelers navigate the final stretch of the season. His absence leaves a glaring hole on defense, but it also creates an opportunity for other players to step up and prove themselves on the big stage. While uncertainty surrounds Watt’s return, Pittsburgh’s focus remains on winning now and keeping their playoff hopes alive. The team, the fans, and the organization will all be closely monitoring his progress, hoping that their star pass rusher can return healthy and ready to make an impact when it matters most.

Which player do you believe will make the biggest impact with Watt out? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me. I will respond!

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