The Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off shocking victory twice this season against the Baltimore Ravens. However, the thrill of victory was marred by tragic news, as experienced player TJ Watt sustained injuries in both winning encounters, overshadowing the team’s moments of celebration.
As the NFL playoffs approach, the spotlight intensifies on TJ Watt and his injury concerns, amplifying the challenges faced by the Steelers. The story of injury woes extends beyond the Steelers, encompassing key players from various teams. Gabe Davis of the Buffalo Bills, Jerry Hughes of the Houston Texans, and Jerry Jacobs of the Detroit Lions.
Injury update on TJ Watt and Gabe Davis
In a significant blow to the Pittsburgh Steelers, they will be without star linebacker TJ Watt and wide receiver Gabe Davis in their playoff showdown against the Buffalo Bills.
Watt’s absence follows a grade-3 MCL sprain that he suffered in the third quarter of the Steelers’ 17-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. Despite leading the NFL with 19 sacks and showcasing stellar defensive prowess throughout the season, Watt’s playoff journey is now halted due to this unfortunate setback.
On the offensive front, Gabe Davis, the Bills’ second-leading receiver, is sidelined with a PCL sprain sustained in the season finale. Although initial reports suggested a less severe injury, Davis remains unable to play after missing the first two practices of the week.
His absence is a significant setback for the Bills, given his impressive stats of 45 receptions, 746 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns.
Injury update on Jerry Hughes and Jerry Jacobs
The Houston Texans are bracing for a crucial playoff matchup without defensive stalwart Jerry Hughes. He exited Saturday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts with a lower-body injury in the third quarter. Due to the injury, he skipped the team’s practice session as well, per NBC Sports.
With the injury, the key contributor to the Texans’ defensive line joins Jonathan Greenard on the injury list.
With 3.0 sacks, he ranks among the Texans’ top-five sack leaders, collectively responsible for 33.5 of the team’s 46 sacks this season. His absence presents a challenge for the Texans as they prepare for a crucial playoff scenario.
On the other side of the playoff spectrum, the Detroit Lions face their own defensive setback as cornerback Jerry Jacobs has been ruled out for their Wild Card playoff clash with the Los Angeles Rams. After being placed on injured reserve for sustaining a lower-body injury, Jacobs’ absence comes after starting 12 games for the Lions this season.
Despite Jacobs’ significant contributions, including 55 combined tackles, including 2 tackles for loss, 8 pass defenses, and 3 interceptions in the season, the Lions must navigate their first home playoff game in 30 years without the promising cornerback.
Stay tuned for the latest update.
