NFL Rumors: Steelers Edge Rusher T.J. Watt Might Not Miss Season

When a torn pectoral for superstar T.J. Watt was announced during the broadcast of the Pittsburgh Steelers' nail-biting win over the Cincinnati Bengals, most assumed the edge rusher would be out for the remainder of the year. But Ian Rapoport shared some reason for optimism on the NFL Network today, revealing that there were potential scenarios where Watt could return at some point in the second half of the season:

From NFL Now: The #Steelers and TJ Watt are weighing options surrounding his pec injury, with both rehab-only and surgery as the options. Plus, more on RB Najee Harris and his foot. pic.twitter.com/rYAwSyWHff
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 12, 2022

According to Rapoport, Watt may opt for rehab over surgery should the severity of the injury allow, and that could reduce his timetable for a return to 6-8 weeks. That would be outstanding news for the four-time Pro Bowler and reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

Watt led the Steelers to an incredible season-opening win against the division rival Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, notching a sack and an interception for a defense that tallied five takeaways and seven sacks against quarterback Joe Burrow. If the Steelers intend to compete this year, they'll have to hope they can make defensive performances like this one the norm, as their offense sputtered in quarterback Mitchell Trubisky's debut, compiling a mere 13 first downs and 267 yards across four quarters and a full period of overtime. They'll need Watt to play their best. Hopefully, they can keep their season from derailing while he's away.