Pittsburgh Steelers fans have been handed an early Christmas present after TJ Watt returned to practice for the first time since suffering a partially punctured lung. 

Watt was rushed to hospital with the troubling health issue earlier this month and, just one day later, underwent surgery to repair a partially collapsed lung.

After the procedure, the Steelers insisted that Watt would remain out of action and that updates over his condition would be provided at an appropriate time. 

Just two weeks later, it appears that Watt has overcome the issue after he was pictured in practice on Wednesday ahead of their game against the Browns on 28th.

However, reports did note that Watt was a limited participant on the day. 

The pass rusher's return to health comes at a crucial time. They can guarantee their spot in the playoffs with a victory over the Browns on Sunday. 

Alternatively, should the Baltimore Ravens lose to the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, then the Steelers will automatically claim top spot in the AFC North. 

Back in the summer, Watt signed a three-year, $123million deal with the Steelers - making him the NFL's highest-paid defender in the process.

The four-time All-Pro's contract also includes $108m guaranteed, while he is set to earn $21m this season in the final year of his previous deal.

Watt's issue comes just days after his Steelers teammate, receiver DK Metcalf, had a two-game ban upheld for swinging out at a Detroit Lions fan.

Metcalf's suspension could prove costly. Based on his contract with the Steelers, the ruling would void not only the rest of his salary for this season, but also $45 million in future guarantees, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. 

Daily Mail has reached out to Metcalf’s agent for confirmation.