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Pittsburgh Steelers star TJ Watt said he was excited to play against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, just three weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a partially collapsed lung.
Watt, 31, last played in Week 14 against the Ravens before being hospitalized later in the week after suffering a collapsed lung during dry needling at the Steelers’ training complex.
“I feel really good. I’m not sure I could have said that a week ago,” the eight-time Pro Bowler said, according to ESPN. “I’m excited to play.”
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Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker TJ Watt warms up before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on November 30, 2025. (Barry Reeger/Imagn Images)
The Steelers vs. Ravens game is a winner-take-all matchup, with the winner capturing the AFC North. The Steelers could have won the AFC North last week if the Ravens had lost to the Green Bay Packers or if the Steelers had beaten the Cleveland Browns.
Instead, the Ravens beat the Packers 41-24 without an injured Lamar Jackson, and the Steelers lost to the Cleveland Browns 13-6, setting up the Week 18 game for the division title and a playoff berth.
LAMAR JACKSON CONFIRMS HE WILL START FOR RAVENS IN MUST-HAVE AFC NORTH FINAL AGAINST STEELERS
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker TJ Watt watches the action against the Indianapolis Colts during the second half at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on November 2, 2025. (Barry Reeger/Imagn Images)
Watt’s return will be a big boost for the Steelers defense. In 13 games this season, Watt had seven sacks, three forced fumbles and 53 total tackles. The former Wisconsin star has made the Pro Bowl in each of the last seven seasons.
Watt was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 after recording 22½ sacks. The four-time first-team All-Pro was a finalist for the award two other seasons.
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Over the course of his career, Watt has recorded 115 sacks and 36 forced fumbles in 134 games and is constantly alongside the quarterback.
The Steelers and Ravens play at 8:20 p.m. ET on Sunday.
