T.J. Watt is expected to be on the field when the Pittsburgh Steelers face the Cleveland Browns in a game that could decide the AFC North.
The Steelers' star defender has been dealing with a lung injury, but NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported that Watt is expected to play in the Steelers' next meaningful game.

What happened to T.J. Watt's injury status?

T.J. Watt's availability for the matchup against the Browns was uncertain due to his lung injury, but Rapoport's report signals that he will be ready to play.
The Steelers enter the matchup with a chance to clinch the AFC North outright, and a win over Cleveland would lock them in as the No. 4 seed in the AFC playoff picture.

Why is T.J. Watt's status important for the Steelers?

T.J. Watt has remained a major force for the Steelers during the 2025 season, totaling 53 tackles, including 22 solo stops, and recording 7.0 sacks and 10 tackles for loss.
He has also forced three fumbles, added one interception, and defended 13 passes, showcasing his all-around impact on the team's defense.
The Steelers value securing the division early and avoiding unnecessary risk in the season finale, and Watt's availability reinforces this strategy.

What comes next for the Steelers and T.J. Watt?

If the Steelers win against the Browns, they will control their path and protect their star defender, but a loss would change everything and make the division title come down to Week 18 against the Baltimore Ravens.
In that scenario, the Ravens' matchup would become a winner-take-all game for the AFC North, virtually guaranteeing Watt's presence on the field despite his injury.
T.J. Watt has continued to battle through injuries this season, remaining one of the focal points of opposing game plans whenever he plays.
The Steelers' regular-season finale against the Baltimore Ravens would be rendered meaningless from a standings perspective if they win against the Browns, making it likely that Watt and other key starters would be rested.
But if the Steelers fall to the Browns, the division title would come down to Week 18, and Watt's presence would be crucial in the winner-take-all game.