Steelers activate OLB T.J. Watt from reserve/COVID-19 list ahead of Sunday’s game vs. Ravens

The Ravens offensive line won’t get a break Sunday after all.

Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt was activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list, the team announced Saturday morning, clearing the way for the star pass rusher to return for Sunday’s AFC North matchup.

Watt tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday, but reportedly exited the protocols with a second negative test Saturday morning.

The NFL Network reported that the Steelers have been sending Watt practice footage all week long and he has been apprised of their game plan during his quarantine. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said this week that he was planning for the Steelers to have Watt available.

Watt’s return is crucial for a banged-up Steelers defense. Pittsburgh will be without cornerback Joe Haden (foot), defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs (ankle) and inside linebacker Robert Spillane (COVID-19) on Sunday, while defensive linemen Cam Heyward and Isaiahh Loudermilk missed practice Friday because of illness.

A three-time Pro Bowl selection and one of the league’s premier defenders, Watt has started nine games this season and has 12.5 sacks — second only to Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett (14) — three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.