T.J. Watt's injury not as bad as feared

J.J. Watt reports that the injury to his little brother's knee isn't as bad as originally feared. He says Steelers Edge T.J. Watt sustained a mere Grade 2 sprain to his left MCL. That could still knock the younger Watt out of Pittsburgh's playoff opener. But it gives him a better chance to play than previous reports or a tear or Grade 3 sprain. We'll see about Watt's status heading into Wild Card weekend.

Steelers HC Mike Tomlin confirmed Tuesday that Edge T.J. Watt (knee) will miss Sunday's playoff game at Buffalo. That likely leaves rookie Nick Herbig as the playing-time leader in Watt's spot opposite Alex Highsmith.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Steelers believe Edge T.J. Watt suffered a Grade 3 sprain to his left MCL in Saturday's win over the Ravens. Watt reportedly wanted to re-enter the game after sustaining the injury, but the team would not let him. He'll have further testing to confirm what is typically a multi-week injury. If the Steelers make the playoffs -- they need some help Sunday -- we'll see whether Watt can return for the opener.

Update: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that it's believed to be an MCL tear. That would seem to make Watt unlikely to play in the playoffs, if Pittsburgh qualifies.

The Steelers announced Wednesday that an independent neurologist has cleared Edge T.J. Watt to play this weekend against the Colts. Watt entered the concussion protocol after the loss to the Patriots but should be set for Week 15 IDP lineups. Edge Alex Highsmith remains in the concussion protocol, however

Steelers EDGE T.J. Watt has been upgraded for Sunday's game against the Ravens. Originally questionable with a rib issue, he now carries no injury designation. We already expected Watt to play, after he played through a questionable tag for the same injury last week. But this indicates he's healthier. As you set your IDP lineups, though, keep in mind that we haven't gotten the same Watt since he returned from IR. You'll find Watt lower in our Week 14 IDP rankings than he sat the previous few weeks.

Steelers EDGE T.J. Watt (rib) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Ravens. He played through the issue last week, so we'd bet on him doing so again. We'll confirm his status Sunday morning.