Steelers' T.J. Watt Says X-Rays Were Negative on Ankle Injury After Loss to Eagles

Pittsburgh Steelers star pass-rusher T.J. Watt confirmed that X-Rays on his ankle were negative following a 27-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.

Watt explained that he rolled his ankle in the fourth quarter of the defeat while trying to sack Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and he'll have to wait and see if he's able to suit up in Week 16 (via Mike DeFabo of The Athletic).

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin clarified that Watt is dealing with a low-ankle injury instead of a high-ankle issue.

Watt exited the contest immediately after suffering the injury, but he was able to walk into the locker room under his own power.

The 30-year-old recorded seven tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble against Philadelphia.

Losing Watt for any significant period of time would be a tough blow to Pittsburgh's defense, as he appeared to be heading towards a seventh consecutive Pro Bowl nod.

Injuries haven't been an issue for him as of late, appearing in each of the Steelers' first 13 regular-season games in 2024 and starting all 17 contests during his 2023 campaign.

In 13 starts prior to Sunday's matchup, Watt racked up 47 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks and three passes defensed. He's continued to serve as a key piece on the NFL's fifth-ranked scoring defense, with Pittsburgh allowing a mere 18.3 points per game.

Despite the defeat at the hands of the Eagles, the Steelers still clinched a playoff spot due to losses by the Miami Dolphins and Indianapolis Colts.

Pittsburgh hasn't secured an AFC North crown just yet, though.

Watt's presence will be sorely needed during a Week 16 clash with the Baltimore Ravens that contains major playoff implications. The Ravens currently sit one game behind the Steelers in the division standings, although Pittsburgh owns the tiebreaker with a Week 11 win over Baltimore.

Tomlin's team is still headed to the playoffs regardless, but Watt's availability moving forward will be critical for the Steelers as they attempt to earn their first division title since 2020.