The Pittsburgh Steelers are dealing with numerous injuries heading into Week 16. Two of those injured Steelers’ are T.J. Watt and George Pickens. What are their statuses for Saturday’s game against the Baltimore Ravens?
T.J. Watt In, George Pickens Out
A look at player injuries & practice participation for Week 16. @UPMCSportsMedhttps://t.co/D0J37n9hSx
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) December 17, 2024
The Pittsburgh defense will be with their best player on Saturday. Watt is not on the injury report and has no game designation. This means, barring an unforeseen setback, Watt will play against the Ravens.
Watt rolled his ankle in Week 15’s loss to the Eagles. After not practicing on Tuesday, Watt was a limited participant on Wednesday before becoming more active on Thursday.
The former Defensive Player of the Year is the heartbeat of the Steelers’ defense. Watt has recorded 54 tackles, 11.5 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles this season.
Pittsburgh is 1-10 in games Watt doesn’t play, so having him for a rivalry game is a huge boost.
Unfortunately for Russell Wilson, he will be without his favorite target. Pickens is out for the third consecutive game with a hamstring injury.
Pickens has been Wilson’s best target all season, especially on deep balls. Pickens has recorded 55 catches for 850 yards and three touchdowns.
Backup quarterback Justin Fields is also out with an abdomen injury.
Steelers Vs. Ravens Playoff Implications
.@robkinger91, @dlolley_pgh, and @WilliamsonNFL preview the Steelers Week 16 game against the Ravens. @Shell pic.twitter.com/2lapXtanrP
— Steelers Live (@SteelersLive) December 19, 2024
Pittsburgh has already clinched a playoff spot heading into Week 16. However, the AFC North could be decided by Saturday night.
If the Steelers win, Pittsburgh wins the AFC North. If they lose, Baltimore stays alive for the division.
The Steelers have Lamar Jackson’s number. Pittsburgh is 1-4 against Baltimore when Jackson starts at quarterback. The Steelers previously beat the Ravens in Week 11 by a score of 18-16.
The Steelers (10-4) hit the road to play the Ravens (9-5) on Dec. 21 at 4:30 p.m. ET.