Steelers’ T.J. Watt at hospital having lung evaluated

PITTSBURGH — Steelers star TJ Watt is in a local hospital for further evaluation of his lungs after experiencing discomfort at the practice facility Wednesday, and his status for Monday’s game against the Miami Dolphins is in question, team spokesman Burt Lauten said in a statement.

“He was feeling some discomfort when he was at the facility yesterday, so we took him to the doctor and they’re going through some procedures,” coach Mike Tomlin said after Thursday’s practice. “He spent the night in the hospital. He has a lung problem that is being treated. I think he has some tests and such ahead of him this afternoon, and that’s all I know at this point.

“…His status for Monday evening is really uncertain. I think what happens this afternoon will provide us with more information.”

Watt’s lung injury occurred during treatment at the team facility on Wednesday, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Watt has been hospitalized since then, the sources said.

Tomlin said he “heard of” the incident when Watt was in the team cafeteria at some point Wednesday.

“We know he’s getting better, but it really hurts when one of our teammates is in hospital,” said compatriot Alex Highsmith, who added that he had been in contact with Watt over the past day.

“…It’s definitely a scary situation, a difficult situation. I’ve just been praying for him. I know he’s getting better.”

The NFL Players Association is aware of the situation and has been in contact with Watt and his representation.

Watt had six tackles, including one for loss, and a quarterback hit in the win over the Ravens on Sunday, where he played 68 (88%) defensive snaps.

The former Defensive Player of the Year and four-time All-Pro, who signed a three-year, $123 million extension in July, has 7 sacks, 3 forced fumbles and 1 interception this season along with 18 quarterback hits and 10 tackles for loss in 13 games this season.

Watt’s condition was not among the health concerns detailed by coach Mike Tomlin during Tuesday’s news conference. Tomlin will provide further updates on Watt at the “appropriate time,” Lauten said in his statement.

“I haven’t talked to TJ,” quarterback Aaron Rodgers said Thursday, “but I would never bet against anyone in the Watt family to be able to handle something big or small and get back on the field as quickly as possible.”