PITTSBURGH — The Steelers got the news last week that star pass rusher T.J. Watt suffered torn tendons in his finger after dislocating it against the Ravens. However, it was not supposed to keep him out at all. Defensive coordinator Teryl Austin was asked about the injury. Specifically, he was asked if there was any worry for the future of Watt’s injury and if his game would have limitations. His answer was terse and revealing.
“No and no,” Austin said.
Head coach Mike Tomlin noted that Watt had a finger injury following the team’s win over the Ravens, but the injury will not stop Watt from continuing his reign of terror. The injury could require surgery following the season, but he will endure it. That injury happened in the first quarter when Watt came off the field following a play. However, he went on to get two sacks, including the game-clinching sack. As always, Watt racked up five pressures on the day with that injury and became a positive bonus in the run game.
Pittsburgh is expected to get healthy, and it’s excellent news for them that Watt is not dealing with anything serious. Austin said that Watt will not be limited by it is better news and expected after he went on a rampage against the Ravens after suffering it. So, the report on the injury front keeps getting better.
They expect Diontae Johnson and Anthony McFarland back this week. Starting right guard James Daniels practiced on Wednesday, showing that he will likely return soon from his groin injury. Pressley Harvin III, the team’s punter, after missing two games with a hamstring injury. Lastly, defensive captain Cam Heyward was seen running off the field on the field last Tuesday, meaning he is getting closer to recovering from core muscle surgery.