T.J. Steelers’ Watt put in concussion protocol

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker TJ Watt was placed in concussion protocol.

Watt reported symptoms Friday morning following the Steelers’ 21-18 loss to the New England Patriots and was subsequently placed in protocol, according to Steelers team spokesman Burt Lauten.

To return to play, Watt must be cleared by an independent neurologist, while the Steelers’ next game is Saturday against the Indianapolis Colts.

Watt was injured on the first play of Thursday night’s game when Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott’s knee hit Watt in the face late in a run.

Watt left the field on several plays, but then took the field later in the first quarter wearing a tinted visor. He finished the game playing 90% of the defensive snaps.

Meanwhile, the Steelers’ other starting linebacker, Alex Highsmith, is also dealing with an injury. He emerged from the loss to the Patriots in the second quarter with a neck injury.

This season, Pittsburgh has lost Cole Holcomb to injury at that position, who in week nine suffered a shocking blow to his left knee that required surgery and ended his season.

A week later he released Kwon Alexander due to a torn Achilles tendon he suffered in the game against the Packers.

The Pittsburgh Steelers occupy third place in the North division of the American Conference (AFC) with seven games won and six lost.

Until week 14 they are in eighth place in the AFC, outside the playoff spots, to which seven teams qualify.