Steelers place star LB T.J. Watt in concussion protocol

Field Level Media|published: Sat 9th December, 10:56 2023

Dec 7, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Bailey Zappe (4) runs the ball as Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt (90) chases during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. New England won 21-18. credits: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

All-Pro linebacker T.J. Watt is in the concussion protocol, two days after his Pittsburgh Steelers lost 21-18 to the New England Patriots.

Watt was cleared to return to the game Thursday after he was injured on the first play, when he took a helmet to the chin. Later in the first quarter, a dark visor was attached to his helmet.

He made five tackles and had no sacks.

When Watt, 29, got to the team facility on Friday, he reported his symptoms and was placed in the protocol, the team said Saturday.

Outside linebacker Alex Highsmith also is in the protocol after leaving the game against the Patriots in the first quarter.

Watt, the NFL defensive player of the year in 2021, is a three-time All-Pro. On the season, he has 52 tackles, an interception, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. His 14 sacks are second in the NFL, one less than Khalil Mack of the Los Angeles Chargers.

Highsmith, 26, is in his fourth season with the Steelers. He has 49 tackles, six sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception returned for a touchdown.

The Steelers (7-6) have lost two straight games. They will visit the Indianapolis Colts next Saturday in Week 15.

—Field Level Media

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