NFL Insider: Steelers' Mike Tomlin "Knows Nothing" Purposely About TJ Watt's Lung Injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers headed into their Week 15 contest against the Miami Dolphins without superstar pass rusher TJ Watt. The Steelers star had his lung punctured during a routine dry needling session at the team’s facility. The details were relatively murky until TJ’s brother, JJ Watt, sent out a tweet confirming that the incident happened at the Steelers' facility and hinted that the team may be at fault. Accidents happen, but this one was both costly and dangerous. Steelers fans are just thankful Watt is recovering, and he is eager to get back on the field.

NFL insider Mike Florio joined 93.7 The Fan on Wednesday to discuss why he thinks Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin has been unusually quiet about the Watt incident. Florio believes Tomlin’s silence is notable because the situation involves one of the most important players on the team. Fans and analysts are left questioning why the team has not provided more clarity on Watt’s condition and the circumstances surrounding the injury.

The seriousness of the situation has created concern throughout the Steelers organization and fanbase. The procedure that caused Watt’s punctured lung was routine but carries inherent risks, and the fact that it happened at the team’s facility has raised questions about oversight and responsibility. Steelers fans are closely following Watt’s recovery while waiting for answers from the team and coaching staff.

"I know that it is a very sensitive and serious issue because Mike Tomlin seems to be deliberately avoiding any knowledge and any information," Florio said while speaking on 93.7 The Fan on Wednesday afternoon. "He knows this is eventually gonna hit the fan and people are gonna get questioned by lawyers and have to show up and testify and make statements. He knows nothing and he doesn’t seem to wanna know anything."

It has been revealed that Watt is expected to return in the 2025 season, but the timeline remains murky, with one doctor even suggesting it could be difficult for him to return. The Steelers are 8-6 and gearing up for the final three games of the season, leaving fans curious about when Watt can come back. 

Florio believes Tomlin is staying quiet to avoid any potential legal issues down the road, as more details are likely to come out and the full truth will eventually be revealed.

"Think about this in the big picture," Florio said. "One of the most important players on the team. If you are the head coach, this isn’t some routine sprained ankle. He got a hole in his lung in the team building with a procedure that, if you don’t do it properly, can put a hole in someone’s lung and he knows nothing about what is happening. He knows nothing about the procedure. He knows nothing about his status… this is the kind of thing that doesn't happen unless someone screwed up."

Steelers Are Eager To Get TJ Watt Back On The Field

As the Steelers navigate the final stretch of the season without Watt, for now, the focus remains on both his recovery and the team’s handling of the incident. Fans are understandably anxious, hoping for transparency and clarity from the organization while cheering on their team in these critical games. 

Watt’s return is eagerly anticipated, but uncertainty still lingers around the timeline and the full details of what happened. Florio’s insights underscore the seriousness of the situation and why the coaching staff may be cautious in their communication. Ultimately, Steeler Nation will be watching closely as the story continues to unfold. Florio also indicated that Watt may have lasting resentment toward the organization after this incident, which is another wrinkle Steelers fans will be monitoring.

When do you think TJ Watt will return to the field? 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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