Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt has undergone surgery to repair and stabilise a partially collapsed lung following a dry needling treatment at the team’s facility, according to his brother, J.J. Watt.
The Steelers confirmed that Watt was hospitalised, prompting concern among fans. Watt later shared a brief update on social media indicating he was receiving medical care. While no official recovery timeline has been released, he is expected to be discharged on Friday.
J.J. Watt said the family is grateful for the support and well wishes they have received.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport noted that dry needling is a routine therapy used across the league to treat muscle soreness and is generally regarded as safe. In Watt’s case, the procedure reportedly resulted in serious complications, causing significant pain and requiring emergency medical intervention.
The situation has drawn parallels with a 2020 incident involving current New York Jets quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who suffered a punctured lung while receiving a pain relieving injection when he played for the Los Angeles Chargers. Taylor later sued the doctor involved, alleging medical malpractice and seeking at least five million dollars in damages.
Watt has not publicly commented on the incident, but he is widely expected to miss Monday night’s game against the Miami Dolphins. The Steelers have three regular season games remaining, with potential playoff appearances depending on qualification.
