### T.J. Watt's Recovery: A Promising Return for the Steelers Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt is making significant strides in his recovery from a partially collapsed lung, which required surgery two weeks ago. His potential return to practice this week has generated optimism among fans and teammates alike, especially as the Steelers gear up for a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. Coach Mike Tomlin has expressed hope for Watt's availability, although it remains uncertain. Watt's presence on the field is vital for the Steelers as they aim for a playoff spot, and his recent progress is a positive sign for the team's defensive lineup [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/steelers-olb-t-j-watt-023033503.html, https://www.whec.com/ap-top-news/steelers-lb-tj-watt-returns-to-practice-two-weeks-after-surgery-to-repair-collapsed-lung.html]. ### Breakdown of T.J. Watt's Current Status and Implications 1. **Injury Background**: - T.J. Watt underwent surgery for a partially collapsed lung, which was a complication from a dry needling procedure intended to alleviate soreness [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/latest_on_tj_watts_return_from_partially_collapsed_lung/s1_17039_43233302.html]. - He has missed the last two games due to this injury [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/tj_watts_return_remains_murky_and_uncertain/s1_14819_43239572.html]. 2. **Recent Developments**: - Watt returned to practice as a partial participant, indicating progress in his recovery [https://www.whec.com/ap-top-news/steelers-lb-tj-watt-returns-to-practice-two-weeks-after-surgery-to-repair-collapsed-lung.html]. - Coach Mike Tomlin is cautiously optimistic about Watt's potential to play in the upcoming game against the Browns [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/steelers-olb-t-j-watt-201703323.html]. 3. **Team Impact**: - Watt's return is crucial for the Steelers' defense, especially as they push for a playoff spot [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/tj-watt-injury-update-huge-news-pittsburgh-steelers-week-17/24864c5854be94311ab2e4eb]. - His performance this season includes seven sacks, and he was recently named to his eighth Pro Bowl [https://www.whec.com/ap-top-news/steelers-lb-tj-watt-returns-to-practice-two-weeks-after-surgery-to-repair-collapsed-lung.html]. ### Evidence Supporting T.J. Watt's Recovery Progress - **Practice Participation**: Watt was a partial participant in practice, which is a significant step in his recovery process [https://www.whec.com/ap-top-news/steelers-lb-tj-watt-returns-to-practice-two-weeks-after-surgery-to-repair-collapsed-lung.html]. - **Coaching Insights**: Coach Mike Tomlin's comments reflect a positive outlook on Watt's potential return, emphasizing the importance of his presence for the team [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/steelers-olb-t-j-watt-201703323.html]. - **Team Morale**: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers noted that Watt's presence at practice is beneficial for team morale and performance [https://www.whec.com/ap-top-news/steelers-lb-tj-watt-returns-to-practice-two-weeks-after-surgery-to-repair-collapsed-lung.html]. ### Conclusion: T.J. Watt's Path to Recovery and Its Significance In summary, **T.J. Watt's recovery from a partially collapsed lung is progressing positively**, with his return to practice signaling hope for his participation in Week 17. The following points summarize the situation: 1. Watt's surgery and subsequent recovery have been closely monitored, with a focus on ensuring his health before returning to play [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/latest_on_tj_watts_return_from_partially_collapsed_lung/s1_17039_43233302.html]. 2. His potential return is crucial for the Steelers as they aim for a playoff berth, and his performance this season has been noteworthy [https://www.whec.com/ap-top-news/steelers-lb-tj-watt-returns-to-practice-two-weeks-after-surgery-to-repair-collapsed-lung.html]. 3. The team remains optimistic, but Watt's health will be the priority as decisions are made leading up to the game against the Browns [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/news/tj-watt-injury-update-huge-news-pittsburgh-steelers-week-17/24864c5854be94311ab2e4eb]. As the situation develops, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Watt can make a triumphant return to the field.