Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt, former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, spent Wednesday night in a local hospital after experiencing discomfort in his lungs during a team practice. The 31-year-old standout athlete is currently undergoing further medical evaluation, with the team withholding updates until more information is available.

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Details of T.J. Watt’s Hospitalization

A spokesperson for the Steelers confirmed on December 11, 2025, that Watt was taken to the hospital after reporting discomfort to the team’s medical staff at the practice facility. Watt did not participate in practice on Thursday while continuing his evaluation.

“T.J. Watt is currently in a local hospital for further medical evaluation of his lung after experiencing discomfort at the practice facility,” said Steelers spokesperson Ben Lauten.

Head coach Mike Tomlin echoed the update, noting that Watt’s situation is being addressed medically:

“He was experiencing some discomfort yesterday at the facility, so we took him to the doctors, and they’re going through some procedures. He stayed overnight in the hospital.”

Tomlin also stated that Watt’s availability for Monday night’s game against the Miami Dolphins is uncertain, with further tests expected to provide clarity.

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T.J. Watt’s Career Highlights

T.J. Watt has been a cornerstone of the Steelers defense since being drafted No. 30 overall in 2017. A four-time All-Pro and former NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Watt is the youngest of three brothers to play in the NFL, joining siblings J.J. Watt and Derek Watt in a family legacy of defensive excellence.

So far this season, Watt has recorded seven sacks, three forced fumbles, and an interception, anchoring a defensive unit that has kept the Steelers in first place in the AFC North with a 7-6 record.

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Personal Life and Recent Milestones

Nine months ago, T.J. Watt and his wife Dani welcomed their first child, daughter Blakely Marie Watt, on March 10, 2025. The couple married in July 2022, and their growing family has been celebrated by fans and the NFL community alike.

In July 2025, Watt signed a three-year, $123 million contract extension with the Steelers, solidifying his position as a key leader on and off the field.

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What’s Next for Watt

The Steelers organization emphasized that updates on Watt’s health will be shared when appropriate. Fans and analysts will be watching closely, as his recovery timeline could impact the team’s playoff push and defensive performance in the final weeks of the season.

“He and I communicated last night, he was comfortable, and that’s all I have really at this point,” Tomlin said.

Watt’s health and return to action will be pivotal for Pittsburgh as the team looks to maintain its lead in the AFC North and make a deep playoff run.

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Key Takeaways

• Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt was hospitalized Wednesday after experiencing lung discomfort during practice.
• Watt remained conscious and stable, undergoing further evaluation overnight.
• His status for the next game against the Miami Dolphins is currently unknown.
• Watt is a four-time All-Pro and former NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
• This season, he has seven sacks, three forced fumbles, and one interception, anchoring the Steelers defense.
• Watt signed a three-year, $123 million contract extension in July 2025 and welcomed his first child, Blakely Marie, nine months ago.