For the first time since having his lung punctured two weeks ago in a dry needling treatment, Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt returned to practice Wednesday on a limited basis.
It was Watt’s first on-field activity since the Steelers’ win on Dec. 7 at Baltimore.
“T.J. is one our leaders,” quarterback Aaron Rodgers said. “I love having him around. I’m not sure what his status is going to be, but his presence is good for our team.”
Watt sustained a partially collapsed lung that required an overnight hospital stay. His return to the Steelers for their game Sunday in Cleveland could depend on whether the Steelers have secured a playoff berth by then. If Green Bay beats Baltimore on Saturday night, the Steelers win the AFC North and Watt likely would be rested Sunday for the third game in a row.
Earlier in the week, Watt was selected to the Pro Bowl for the eighth time in his career.
“He provides a lot of knowledge. That’s something not a lot of people talk about,” defensive captain Cameron Heyward said. “T.J. is a student of the game. When you share stuff with outside linebackers, it just heightens our awareness. … He’s trying to get ready.”
Watt was one of two injured outside linebackers to practice Wednesday on a limited basis. Nick Herbig, who missed the game last Sunday in Detroit with a hamstring injury, also returned.
Also limited in practice were left guard Isaac Seumalo (triceps), cornerback James Pierre (calf) and running back Jayen Warren (hip). Sitting out practice because of injuries were wide receiver Calvin Austin III (hamstring) and cornerback Brandin Echols (groin). Rodgers (left wrist) and wide receiver/special teams player Ben Skowronek (hand) practiced fully. Long snapper Christian Kuntz (knee) also was a full participant.
Right tackle Troy Fautanu did not practice because of a personal matter, and Heyward did not practice as a veteran rest day.
