The Pittsburgh Steelers will be without a key figure of their defense on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals, but more as a precaution. Linebacker TJ Watt, who is dealing with a groin injury, will be sidelined, via Ian Rapoport:
#Steelers LB TJ Watt (groin) has been downgraded to out vs the #Bengals. He was close, but the team protects him from himself.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 25, 2021
By the sounds of it, Watt could probably play, but the Steelers aren't going to risk him suffering another setback. He initially left their Week 2 matchup early against the Raiders with a groin problem, as Pittsburgh ultimately lost a close one.
Earlier this week, there was optimism that Watt could play in Week 3. This definitely seems like the smart decision from the Steelers though after just handing him a massive 4-year, $112 million extension following months of contract negotiations.
He is arguably one of the best defenders in the NFL and the heartbeat of their defense. There are still tons of games left this season and letting him suit up when he's not totally 100% would be foolish.
TJ Watt already has three sacks even though he left the Raiders game early. He's now the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL and a huge piece of this Steelers team. Without him healthy, they would be having some serious problems on defense.
Very mature move by the Steelers.
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