PHILADELPHIA — Pittsburgh Steelers star edge defender T.J. Watt left Sunday’s loss to the Philadelphia Eagles during the fourth quarter because of an ankle injury.
Watt, who eventually walked off under his own power, downplayed the injury after the game.
“Ankle rolled,” Watt said, adding that X-rays were negative.
Watt went down and lied on the field for several moments, appearing to favor his left ankle, after he had been rushing Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts before Hurts threw an incomplete pass with 4 minutes, 50 seconds left in a 27-13 Philadelphia victory.
“I think (Watt’s injury) can be described as a ‘low ankle’ at this juncture,” coach Mike Tomlin said, “but I will have more info (during Monday’s news conference).”
Watt writhed in pain, and after it was clear he could not stand up was attended to by several training personnel. Teammates gathered around him, even quarterback Russell Wilson. After gingerly walking to the sideline, Watt entered the medical tent and after being briefly examined Watt emerged appearing frustrated. He threw his gloves to the ground and walked the opposite direction from the field.
“Fingers crossed,” said the Steelers’ other defensive co-captain, Cameron Heyward. “You know, Steelers faithful. Hopefully he recovers fast. But if he’s not able to go I’d like to think we’re well-equipped to keep these guys right and go into the lion’s den with the Baltimore Ravens.”
