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Tuesday's NFL: Steelers optimistic star LB T.J. Watt will return vs. Saints

Pittsburgh — The Pittsburgh Steelers could get a much-needed jolt as they begin the second half of their season.

Coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday the team is optimistic that star outside linebacker T.J. Watt will be available for Sunday's visit from New Orleans.

Watt, the NFL's reigning Defensive Player of the Year, has been out since sustaining a left pectoral injury late in regulation of a Week 1 overtime win over Cincinnati. The Steelers have slumped without him and come off their bye week at 2-6, the team's worst record through eight games since 2013.