T.J. Watt Exits Week 5 After Apparent Eye Poke
Halftime vision checks left his return uncertain with the Steelers offering no confirmed diagnosis.
Overview
- Watt left the Steelers’ Week 5 game against the Colts after a play late in the first half when he grabbed his face and ran to the sideline in visible pain.
- Broadcast and game reporters said Colts tackle Jalen Travis appeared to poke Watt in the eye during a pass-rush attempt, and no penalty was called on the play.
- Team medical staff evaluated Watt in the sideline medical tent, he was seen holding ice to the injured eye, and he was listed as questionable to return pending further checks at halftime.
- Watt is a premier edge rusher with 119.5 career sacks and early 2026 production that included 4.5 sacks, so his availability matters for the Steelers’ defensive front this season.
- Coverage is developing with no definitive diagnosis or roster update released yet, and the team’s postgame medical findings will determine any short-term impact on Pittsburgh’s lineup.