2 min read • September 13, 2022
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Reigning Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt reportedly suffered a torn pectoral muscle in Sunday’s win over the Bengals, but could return as early as late October.
The news is the best-case scenario for Watt and the Steelers. If his tendon was torn, even partially, he would have required surgery with a return date in December.
The 27-year-old pass rusher was injured late in the win over the Bengals while shoving right tackle La’el Collins.
T.J. Watt’s brother, J.J., suffered a torn pectoral muscle in Week 8, 2019. His tear was severe enough to require surgery and he returned to practice in eight weeks.
T.J. should beat that return timeline because his tear reportedly does not require surgery. The earliest he would likely be back is Week 7 against the Dolphins.
The sixth-year pro had 22.5 sacks, 21 tackles for a loss and 5 forced fumbles in 15 games in 2021.
In 2020, he finished with 15 sacks, 23 tackles for a loss and 2 forced fumbles, but was beat out for the Defensive Player of the Year award by Aaron Donald.
With Watt out for an extended stretch, he has dropped to +2500 to win Defensive Player of the Year, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. Myles Garrett and Micah Parsons are the co-favorites at +500. Aaron Donald is at +900 and Nick Bosa is at +1000.
Malik Reed may get the first shot at Watt’s pass rushing role for the Steelers. Watt’s absence drops the Steelers’ defensive SIC score from 86.6 to 78.6.
Pittsburgh gets a matchup at home against the Patriots in Week 2.
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