The Pittsburgh Steelers’ season is winding down, although a win this week against the Baltimore Ravens could extend it at least one more week. Already this week, two big pieces of news came out surrounding a couple of the teams’ most important players.
First, T.J. Watt was once again voted the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Most Valuable Player for this past year, further solidifying his status as a key figure in the team’s defensive line. This marks the fourth time the accomplished outside linebacker has received this honor.
Also, Kenny Pickett, the second-year starting quarterback recently sidelined with an ankle injury, is showing signs of recovery and is expected to return to action this weekend in a backup role. Should Mason Rudolph struggle, Pickett could be thrust into action in a game the Steelers must win. If the Steelers defeat Baltimore and get some help, they will find themselves in the playoffs. A loss eliminates them from contention.
Steelers’ Squad Faces Multiple Challenges Ahead of Week 18 Clash
The positive news for Steelers fans is that quarterback Kenny Pickett was a full participant in the team’s first day of practice in preparation for their massive upcoming game with the Ravens in Week 18. This marks the first time he’s practiced in full since his injury. Head coach Mike Tomlin expects the quarterback to be available for the game although Mason Rudolph’s performances the last two weeks suggest Pickett won’t see the field.
The Steelers are still grappling with a few other injuries. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and inside linebacker Elandon Roberts were absent from the first day of practice due to knee and pectoral injuries, respectively.
Other players that were restricted include running back Najee Harris (knee), defensive lineman Cam Heyward (groin), and safety Trenton Thompson (neck). Thompson, having missed the last two games because of his injury, is a player to watch throughout the week. Guard Isaac Seumalo was also listed as questionable. Harris, Heyward, and Seumalo, despite missing practice time, have not had to sit out any recent games due to their injuries.
Given the current injury updates and the fact the Ravens are resting some players like Lamar Jackson, today’s NFL odds for the Steelers continue to shift. It will be intriguing to see how these developments impact their performance in the crucial Week 18 game against the Ravens.
T.J. Watt’s Phenomenal Season: A Look at His Statistics and Accolades
T.J. Watt has had a standout season in 2023, delivering some of the best performances of his career. Watt leads the league in sacks with an impressive total of 17, marking his third year achieving this feat. His contributions on the field certainly do not stop there.
The dominant outside linebacker has also made 60 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and 34 quarterback hits. His ability to disrupt the opponent’s passing game is evident in his eight pass deflections, four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and an interception, which he impressively turned into a defensive touchdown.
The Steelers’ defensive powerhouse is running for the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award, a title he is no stranger to, having received the accolade in 2021. He is regarded as one of the top three contenders for the award, alongside Myles Garrett and Micah Parsons.
Watt’s tremendous performance this season has not gone unnoticed by his teammates. He clinched the Team MVP honor for the fourth time, adding to his impressive list of accolades that include five Pro Bowl appearances and three First-Team All-Pro selections. These awards and statistics paint the picture of a player in the prime of his career, setting new standards of excellence on the field.
