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{{Short description|American football player (born 1992)}}
{{Use American English|date=August 2016}}
{{Use American English|date=August 2016}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2016}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2019}}
{{Infobox NFL biography
{{Infobox NFL biography
| name = Ryan Shazier
| name = Ryan Shazier
| image = Ryan Shazier.jpg
| image = Ryan Shazier.jpg
| image_size =
| image_size = 200px
| alt =
| alt =
| caption = Shazier signing autographs in 2014
| number = 50
| caption = Shazier in 2014 training camp
| position = [[Linebacker]]
| current_team = Pittsburgh Steelers
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1992|9|6}}
| number = 50
| birth_place = [[Lauderdale Lakes, Florida]], U.S.
| position = [[Inside linebacker]]
| height_ft = 6
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1992|9|6}}
| height_in = 1
| birth_place = [[Lauderdale Lakes, Florida]]
| death_date =
| weight_lbs = 230
| high_school = [[Plantation High School|Plantation]] <br> {{nowrap|([[Plantation, Florida]])}}
| death_place =
| college = [[Ohio State Buckeyes football|Ohio State]] (2011–2013)
| height_ft = 6
| height_in = 1
| draftyear = 2014
| weight_lbs = 230
| draftround = 1
| draftpick = 15
| high_school = [[Plantation High School|Plantation (FL)]]
| pastteams =
| college = [[Ohio State Buckeyes football|Ohio State]]
* [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] ({{NFL Year|2014|2019}})
| draftyear = 2014
| highlights =
| draftround = 1
* 2× [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2017 Pro Bowl|2016]], [[2018 Pro Bowl|2017]])
| draftpick = 15
* [[George Halas Award]] (2019)
| pastteams =
* First-team [[College Football All-America Team|All-American]] ([[2013 College Football All-America Team|2013]])
* [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] ({{NFL Year|2014}}–present)
* 2× First-team [[List of All-Big Ten Conference football teams|All-Big Ten]] ([[2012 All-Big Ten Conference football team|2012]], [[2013 All-Big Ten Conference football team|2013]])
| status = Injured
| statlabel1 = Total [[Tackle (football move)#Gridiron football|tackles]]
| highlights =
* [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2017 Pro Bowl|2016]])
* First-team [[All-American]] ([[2013 College Football All-America Team|2013]])
* First-team All-[[Big Ten Conference|Big Ten]] (2013)
| statseason = 2017
| statweek = 13
| statlabel1 = Total tackles
| statvalue1 = 299
| statvalue1 = 299
| statlabel2 = Sacks
| statlabel2 = Forced [[fumble]]s
| statvalue2 = 7.0
| statvalue2 = 7
| statlabel3 = Forced Fumbles
| statlabel3 = Fumble recoveries
| statvalue3 = 7
| statvalue3 = 3
| statlabel4 = Interceptions
| statlabel4 = [[Pass deflections]]
| statvalue4 = 7
| statvalue4 = 25
| statlabel5 = [[Interception]]s

| statvalue5 = 7
| nflnew = ryanshazier/2543486
| statlabel6 = Interception yards
| statvalue6 = 2
| statlabel7 = [[Quarterback sack|Sacks]]
| statvalue7 = 7
| pfr = S/ShazRy00
}}
}}


'''Ryan Dean Shazier''' (born September 6, 1992) is an [[American football]] [[inside linebacker]] for the [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] of the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He was drafted by the Steelers in the first round of the [[2014 NFL Draft]]. He played [[college football]] at [[Ohio State Buckeyes football|Ohio State]].
'''Ryan Dean Shazier''' ({{IPAc-en|ʃ|eɪ|ˈ|z|ɪər}}; born September 6, 1992) is an American former professional [[American football|football]] [[linebacker]] who played with the [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] of the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He played [[college football]] for the [[Ohio State Buckeyes football|Ohio State Buckeyes]] and was selected by the Steelers in the first round of the [[2014 NFL draft]].

Shazier had a successful first few seasons in the NFL, including a [[Pro Bowl]] appearance in 2016. During the [[2017 Pittsburgh Steelers season|2017 season]], in a game against the [[2017 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]], Shazier attempted to make a head-first tackle that left him a [[paraplegic]], after which he had to have spinal stabilization surgery and learn to walk again. After spending two seasons on the Steelers' [[physically unable to perform]] list, Shazier announced his retirement from football in 2020.


==College career==
==College career==
Shazier initially committed to play for [[Urban Meyer]] at [[University of Florida|Florida]] but rescinded his commitment after Meyer resigned as the Gators head coach. He then committed to play under [[Jim Tressel]] at Ohio State, but Tressel resigned five months later and was eventually replaced with Urban Meyer.<ref name="draft">{{cite web|URL= http://www.nfl.com/draft/2014/profiles/ryan-shazier?id=2543486| title=NFL Draft Profile: Ryan Shazier| accessdate=January 4, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref>
Shazier initially committed to play for [[Urban Meyer]] at [[University of Florida|Florida]] but rescinded his commitment after Meyer resigned as the Gators head coach. He then committed to play under [[Jim Tressel]] at Ohio State, but Tressel resigned five months later and was eventually replaced with Urban Meyer.<ref name="draft">{{cite web|url= http://www.nfl.com/draft/2014/profiles/ryan-shazier?id=2543486| title=NFL Draft Profile: Ryan Shazier| access-date=January 4, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref>


As a true freshman, Shazier played in every regular season contest and started 3 games. His first start came near the end of the season against [[Penn State Nittany Lions football|Penn State]], where he recorded 15 tackles. He started the next two games and ended his season with 57 tackles, 5 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=http://m.ohiostatebuckeyes.com/m/sports/m-footbl/mtt/ryan_shazier_758525.html|title=Ohio State Buckeyes Player Bio:Ryan Shazier}}</ref>
As a [[true freshman]], Shazier played in every regular season contest and started 3 games. His first start came near the end of the season against [[Penn State Nittany Lions football|Penn State]], where he recorded 15 tackles. He started the next two games and ended his season with 57 [[Tackle (football move)#Gridiron football|tackles]], 5 [[tackles for a loss]], 3 [[Quarterback sack|sacks]], and 2 forced [[fumbles]].<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=http://m.ohiostatebuckeyes.com/m/sports/m-footbl/mtt/ryan_shazier_758525.html|title=Ohio State Buckeyes Player Bio:Ryan Shazier}}</ref>


In 2012, he started all 12 regular season games for Ohio State. Against Penn State, Shazier posted 8 tackles, 2 sacks, and an interception in the third quarter that he returned for the game-deciding touchdown. In a victory against [[Wisconsin Badgers football|Wisconsin]], he had 12 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and he made a game-saving tackle on a goal line stand on fourth and inches. He would finish 2012 leading the [[Big Ten]] with 17 tackles for a loss and place second in the league with 115 tackles. Shazier also had 5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles for the season.<ref name="auto"/>
In 2012, he started all 12 regular season games for Ohio State. Against Penn State, Shazier posted 8 tackles, 2 sacks, and an [[interception]] in the third quarter that he returned for the game-deciding [[touchdown]]. In a victory against [[Wisconsin Badgers football|Wisconsin]], he had 12 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and he made a game-saving tackle on a [[Goal line (gridiron football)|goal line]] stand on fourth and inches. He would finish 2012 leading the [[Big Ten Conference]] with 17 tackles for a loss and place second in the league with 115 tackles. Shazier also had 5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles for the season.<ref name="auto"/>


Against [[University of Indiana|Indiana]] in 2013, he posted more than 20 tackles and tied the school record with 16 solo tackles and 5 tackles for loss. He was voted a first-team All-American by the [[Associated Press]], ''[[USA Today]]'', [[ESPN.com]], and ''[[Sports Illustrated]]''. His 101 solo tackles were the second best in the league and his 143 tackles led the Big Ten Conference. He also had a career-high 6 sacks and 4 forced fumbles.
Against [[University of Indiana|Indiana]] in 2013, he posted more than 20 tackles and tied the school record with 16 solo tackles and 5 tackles for loss. He was voted a first-team [[College Football All-America Team|All-American]] by the [[Associated Press]], ''[[USA Today]]'', [[ESPN.com]], and ''[[Sports Illustrated]]''. His 101 solo tackles were the second best in the league and his 143 tackles led the Big Ten. He also had a career-high 6 sacks and 4 forced fumbles.


On January 5, 2014, Shazier announced that he would forgo his senior season and enter the [[2014 NFL Draft]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2014/story/_/id/10243773/ryan-shazier-nfl-draft-braxton-miller-return-ohio-state-buckeyes|title=OSU's Shazier to NFL; Miller returns|author=|date=|publisher=|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref>
On January 5, 2014, Shazier announced that he would forgo his senior season and enter the [[2014 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ward |first=Austin |date=January 5, 2014 |title=OSU's Shazier to NFL; Miller returns |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2014/story/_/id/10243773/ryan-shazier-nfl-draft-braxton-miller-return-ohio-state-buckeyes |access-date=August 22, 2016 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref>


Shazier finished his career at Ohio State with 315 tackles, 208 solo tackles, and 14.5 sacks.
Shazier finished his career at Ohio State with 315 tackles, 208 solo tackles, and 14.5 sacks.
Line 61: Line 64:
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|-
|-
! rowspan="2"| Season
! colspan=3| !!colspan=5| Defense
! rowspan="2"| Team
! rowspan="2"| GP
! colspan="5"| Tackles
! colspan="5"| Interceptions
! colspan="3"| Fumbles
|-
|-
! Year !! Team !! GP !! Tackles !! For Loss !! Sacks !! Int !! FF
! Cmb !! Solo !! Ast !! TfL !! Sck !! Int !! Yds !! Avg !! TD !! PD !! FF !! FR !! Yds
|-
|-
! [[2011 NCAA Division I FBS football season|2011]] !! [[2011 Ohio State Buckeyes football team|Ohio State]]
| 2011 || Ohio State || 13 || 58 || 5.0 || 3.0 || 0 || 1
| 13 || 58 || 38 || 20 || 5.0 || 3.0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0
|-
|-
! [[2012 NCAA Division I FBS football season|2012]] !! [[2012 Ohio State Buckeyes football team|Ohio State]]
| 2012 || Ohio State || 12 || 115 || 17.0 || 5.0 || 1 || 0
| 12 || 115 || 70 || 45 || 17.0 || 5.0 || 1 || 17 || 17.0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
|-
! [[2013 NCAA Division I FBS football season|2013]] !! [[2013 Ohio State Buckeyes football team|Ohio State]]
| 2013 || Ohio State || 14 || 144 || 23.5 || 7.0 || 0 || 4
| 14 || 144 || 102 || 42 || 23.5 || 7.0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 4 || 4 || 0 || 0
|- style="background:#555; font-weight:bold; color:white;"
|-
| colspan=2 | College Totals || 39 || 317 || 45.5 || 15.0 || 1 || 5
! colspan="2"| Totals<ref>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier College Stats|url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/ryan-shazier-1.html|website=Sports Reference|publisher=Sports Reference|access-date=February 28, 2018}}</ref> !! 39 !! 317 !! 210 !! 107 !! 45.5 !! 15.0 !! 1 !! 17 !! 17.0 !! 1 !! 4 !! 5 !! 0 !! 0
|}
|}


==Professional career==
==Professional career==
===Pre-draft===
Coming out of Ohio State, many analysts and scouts projected him as an early-to-mid first round draft selection. He was ranked the third best outside linebacker and the 19th best prospect by NFLDraftScout.com.<ref>{{cite web|URL=http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=119571&draftyear=2014&genpos=OLB| title=*Ryan Shazier, DS #3 OLB, Ohio State: 2014 NFL Draft| accessdate=January 4, 2017| website=nfldraftscout.com}}</ref> He was invited to the NFL Combine and was able to perform almost all the workouts and positional drills except for the 40, 20, and 10 yard dash. Shazier also participated at Ohio State's Pro Day and was able to finish the drills he didn't complete at the combine. He received numerous positive reviews for his athleticism, agility, production, flexibility, acceleration, strong hands, and lateral movement. Most negative reviews by analysts were based on his lack of ideal size and his under developed vision, instincts, anticipation, and awareness.<ref name="draft"/>
Coming out of Ohio State, many analysts and scouts projected him as an early-to-mid first round draft selection. He was ranked the third best [[outside linebacker]] and the 19th best prospect by NFLDraftScout.com.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=119571&draftyear=2014&genpos=OLB| title=*Ryan Shazier, DS #3 OLB, Ohio State: 2014 NFL Draft| access-date=January 4, 2017| website=nfldraftscout.com}}</ref> He was invited to the [[NFL Combine]] and was able to perform almost all the workouts and positional drills except for the [[40-yard dash|40]], 20, and 10 yard dash. Shazier also participated at Ohio State's [[Pro Day]] and was able to finish the drills he didn't complete at the combine. He received numerous positive reviews for his athleticism, agility, production, flexibility, acceleration, strong hands, and lateral movement. Most negative reviews by analysts were based on his lack of ideal size and his under developed vision, instincts, anticipation, and awareness.<ref name="draft"/>
{{NFL predraft
{{NFL predraft
| height ft = 6
| height ft = 6
| height in = 1
| height in = 1 1/8
| weight = 237
| weight = 237
| dash = 4.38
| dash = 4.38
Line 90: Line 102:
| bench = 25
| bench = 25
| wonderlic =
| wonderlic =
| arm span = 32⅜
| arm span = 32 3/8
| hand span = 10
| hand span = 10
| note = All values from NFL Combine and Ohio State's Pro Day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/draft/2014/profiles/ryan-shazier?id=2543486|title=2014 NFL Draft Profile: Ryan Shazier|author=|date=|publisher=|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=119571&draftyear=2014&genpos=OLB|title=*Ryan Shazier – Ohio State, OLB : 2014 NFL Draft Scout Player Profile|author=|date=|publisher=|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref>
| note = All values from [[NFL Combine]] and Ohio State's [[Pro Day]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/draft/2014/profiles/ryan-shazier?id=2543486|title=2014 NFL Draft Profile: Ryan Shazier|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=119571&draftyear=2014&genpos=OLB|title=*Ryan Shazier – Ohio State, OLB : 2014 NFL Draft Scout Player Profile|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref>
}}
}}


===2014===
===2014===
[[File:Hv3 (cropped).jpg|thumb|200px|Shazier with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2014]]
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Shazier in the first round with the 15th overall pick in the [[2014 NFL Draft]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2014/05/08/Steelers-pick-Ohio-State-OLB-Ryan-Shazier-in-first-round/stories/201405080328|title=Steelers pick Ohio State LB Ryan Shazier in first round|author=|date=|publisher=|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref> He was the third linebacker taken in the draft behind [[Khalil Mack]] (5th) and [[Anthony Barr (American football)|Anthony Barr]] (9th).
The [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] selected Shazier in the first round with the 15th overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2014/05/08/Steelers-pick-Ohio-State-OLB-Ryan-Shazier-in-first-round/stories/201405080328 |title=Steelers pick Ohio State LB Ryan Shazier in first round |last=Bouchette |first=Ed |website=Post-Gazette |access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref> He was the third linebacker taken in the draft behind [[Khalil Mack]] (5th) and [[Anthony Barr (American football)|Anthony Barr]] (9th).<ref>{{Cite web |title=2014 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2014/draft.htm |access-date=2023-05-15 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> On June 5, 2014, the Steelers signed Shazier to a fully guaranteed four-year, $9.50 million contract with a signing bonus of $5.23 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/ryan-shazier-14424/| title=Sportrac.com: Ryan Shazier contract| access-date=January 4, 2017| website=sportrac.com}}</ref>


Shazier began the season as the starting left inside linebacker. He made his professional regular season debut and first career start in the Steelers' home opener against the [[Cleveland Browns]]. In his first career game, he made six total tackles (five solo) and a pass deflection. The following week against the [[Baltimore Ravens]], he had 15 total tackles, with 11 of them being solo, in a 6–20 loss. Shazier missed weeks 4–7 of his rookie season with a knee injury. He returned for his first game back from his injury on October 26, 2014, against the [[Indianapolis Colts]]. He finished the game with four tackles (two solo tackles). After playing two games, Shazier then injured his ankle and missed another four games.<ref name="f008">{{cite web | last=Alper | first=Josh | title=Ryan Shazier will miss another game | website=NBC Sports | date=2014-11-30 | url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/ryan-shazier-will-miss-another-game | access-date=2024-12-29}}</ref> After returning, Shazier made six combined tackles in a 27–17 victory over the [[Cincinnati Bengals]] on December 24. Following an 11–5 season the Steelers made the playoffs. In his first career playoff game, Shazier made 3 solo tackles and one assist in a 17–30 wild-card loss to the Baltimore Ravens. In his first season, he finished with a total of 36 tackles, 24 solo tackles, and a pass deflection in five starts and eight games.
On June 5, 2014, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed Shazier to a fully guaranteed four-year, $9.50 million contract with a signing bonus of $5.23 million.<ref>{{cite web|URL=http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/ryan-shazier-14424/| title=Sportrac.com: Ryan Shazier contract| accessdate=January 4, 2017| website=sportrac.com}}</ref>

Shazier began the season as the starting left inside linebacker. He made his professional regular season debut and first career start in the Steelers' home opener against the [[Cleveland Browns]]. In his first career game, he made six total tackles (five solo) and a pass deflection. The following week against the [[Baltimore Ravens]], he had 15 total tackles, with 11 of them being solo, in a 6–20 loss. Shazier missed weeks 4–7 of his rookie season with a knee injury. He returned for his first game back from his injury on October 26, 2014, against the [[Indianapolis Colts]]. He finished the game with four tackles (two solo tackles). After playing two games, Shazier then suffered an ankle injury and missed another four games.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/11/30/ryan-shazier-will-miss-another-game/|title=Ryan Shazier will miss another game|date=|access-date=November 30, 2014|author=Josh Alper}}</ref> After returning, Shazier made six combined tackles in a 27–17 victory over the [[Cincinnati Bengals]] on December 24. Following an 11–5 season the Steelers made the playoffs. In his first career playoff game, Shazier made 3 solo tackles and one assist in a 17–30 wild-card loss to the Baltimore Ravens. In his first season, he finished with a total of 36 tackles, 24 solo tackles, and a pass deflection in five starts and eight games.


===2015===
===2015===
After his rookie season, Shazier returned the next season to again be the starting inside linebacker. On September 10, 2015, Shazier made five solo tackles and two assists in the season opener at the [[New England Patriots]]. The next game against the [[San Francisco 49ers]], he left the game with a shoulder injury in the fourth quarter after making a career-high 15 total tackles and 11 solo tackles. He also sacked 49ers starting quarterback [[Colin Kaepernick]] for his first career sack. Shazier missed weeks 3–6 with nerve damage in his shoulder.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/2564655-ryan-shazier-injury-updates-on-steelers-lbs-shoulder-and-return|title=Ryan Shazier injury update:the linebacker's shoulder injury and return|access-date=December 30, 2015|author=Alec Nathan}}</ref> After returning, he made five solo tackles, one assist, and a sack in a Week 10 win over the Cleveland Browns. On November 29, 2015, he suffered a concussion and left in the fourth quarter against the [[Seattle Seahawks]]. On December 20, 2015, Shazier made three solo tackles, three assists, and three pass deflections in a 34–27 win over the [[Denver Broncos]]. He also made his first career interception, after picking off Bronco's quarterback [[Brock Osweiler]].<ref name="NFL">{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/player/ryanshazier/2543486/profile|title=NFL Player Profile:Ryan Shazier|access-date=December 29, 2015|author=NFL.com}}</ref> On January 9, 2016, during the AFC Wild Card game against the [[2015 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]], Shazier stripped the ball from [[Jeremy Hill]] with 1:36 left in the fourth quarter and it was recovered by [[Ross Cockrell]] and lead to the game-winning field goal from [[Chris Boswell]]. He finished the 18–16 victory with nine combined tackles and two forced fumbles.<ref>{{cite web|URL=http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2016010901/2015/POST18/steelers@bengals| title=NFL Game Center: Post 18-2015: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals| accessdate=January 4, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref> He finished the season with 87 combined tackles, 3½ sacks, and an interception in 12 starts and 12 games.
After his rookie season, Shazier returned the next season to again be the starting inside linebacker. On September 10, 2015, Shazier made five solo tackles and two assists in the season opener at the [[New England Patriots]]. The next game against the [[San Francisco 49ers]], he left the game with a shoulder injury in the fourth quarter after making a career-high 15 total tackles and 11 solo tackles. He also sacked 49ers quarterback [[Colin Kaepernick]] for his first career sack. Shazier missed weeks 3–6 with nerve damage in his shoulder.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/2564655-ryan-shazier-injury-updates-on-steelers-lbs-shoulder-and-return |title=Ryan Shazier injury update:the linebacker's shoulder injury and return |last=Nathan |first=Alec |website=Bleacher Report |access-date=December 30, 2015}}</ref> After returning, he made five solo tackles, one assist, and a sack in a Week 10 win over the Cleveland Browns. On November 29, 2015, he sustained a concussion and left in the fourth quarter against the [[Seattle Seahawks]]. On December 20, 2015, Shazier made three solo tackles, three assists, and three pass deflections in a 34–27 win over the [[Denver Broncos]]. He also made his first career interception, after picking off Broncos quarterback [[Brock Osweiler]].<ref name="NFL">{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/player/ryanshazier/2543486/profile |title=NFL Player Profile:Ryan Shazier |website=NFL.com |access-date=December 29, 2015}}</ref> On January 9, 2016, during the [[American Football Conference|AFC]] Wildcard game against the [[Cincinnati Bengals]], Shazier stripped the ball from [[Jeremy Hill]] with 1:36 left in the fourth quarter. The ball was recovered by [[Ross Cockrell]], leading to the game-winning field goal from [[Chris Boswell]]. Shazier finished the 18–16 victory with nine combined tackles and two forced fumbles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2016010901/2015/POST18/steelers@bengals| title=NFL Game Center: Post 18-2015: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals| access-date=January 4, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref> He finished the season with 87 combined tackles, 3{{frac|1|2}} sacks, and an interception in 12 starts and 12 games.


===2016===
===2016===
Shazier returned to his starting inside linebacker role to begin the 2016 season. He started the Pittsburgh Steeler's season-opener against the [[2016 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]] and made six combined tackles, two pass deflections, a forced fumble, and intercepted [[Kirk Cousins]] as the Steelers routed the Redskins 38–16. The next game, Shazier recorded a season-high 12 combined tackles in a 24–16 victory over the [[2016 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]]. He re-injured his knee the following game against the [[2016 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]] and was inactive from Weeks 4–6.<ref>{{cite web|URL=https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/platform/amp/steelers-2016-preview-regular-season-news-updates-roster-depth-chart-salary-cap-tickets-new-england-patriots-how-to-watch/2016/10/21/13349484/steelers-injury-report-ryan-shazier-triumphant-return-to-practice| title=Steeler's injury report: Ryan Shazier's triumphant return to practice couldn't come at a better time| accessdate=January 4, 2017| website=behindthesteelcurtain.com}}</ref> He made his return in a Week 7 matchup against the [[2016 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]] and was limited to two assisted tackles and a pass deflection in the 27–16 loss.<ref name="NFL"/> On November 20, 2016, Shazier racked up seven total tackles, a pass deflection, and sacked [[Josh McCown]] for his first of the season, as the Steelers defeated the [[2016 Cleveland Browns season|Cleveland Browns]] 24–9.<ref>{{cite web|URL=http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2016112001/2016/REG11/steelers@browns| title=NFL Game Center: Week 11-2016: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns| accessdate=January 4, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref> On December 25, 2016, he recorded ten combined tackles and intercepted [[Joe Flacco]] in a 31–27 playoff clinching victory over the [[2016 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]]. The next game, Shazier made eight combined tackles and intercepted [[Robert Griffin III]] in the Pittsburgh Steelers 27–24 win over the Browns on their season finale.<ref name="NFL"/>
Shazier returned to his starting inside linebacker role to begin the 2016 season. He started the Steelers' season-opener against the [[Washington Redskins]] and made six combined tackles, two pass deflections, a forced fumble, and intercepted [[Kirk Cousins]] as the Steelers routed the Redskins 38–16. The next game, Shazier recorded a season-high 12 combined tackles in a 24–16 victory over the Bengals. He re-injured his knee the following game against the [[Philadelphia Eagles]] and was inactive from Weeks 4–6.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/platform/amp/steelers-2016-preview-regular-season-news-updates-roster-depth-chart-salary-cap-tickets-new-england-patriots-how-to-watch/2016/10/21/13349484/steelers-injury-report-ryan-shazier-triumphant-return-to-practice| title=Steeler's injury report: Ryan Shazier's triumphant return to practice couldn't come at a better time| access-date=January 4, 2017| website=behindthesteelcurtain.com}}</ref> He made his return in a Week 7 matchup against the [[New England Patriots]] and was limited to two assisted tackles and a pass deflection in the 27–16 loss.<ref name="NFL" /> On November 20, 2016, Shazier racked up seven total tackles, a pass deflection, and sacked [[Josh McCown]] for his first of the season, as the Steelers defeated the [[Cleveland Browns]] 24–9.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2016112001/2016/REG11/steelers@browns| title=NFL Game Center: Week 11-2016: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns| access-date=January 4, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref> On December 25, 2016, he recorded ten combined tackles and intercepted [[Joe Flacco]] in a 31–27 playoff clinching victory over the [[Baltimore Ravens]]. The next game, Shazier made eight combined tackles and intercepted [[Robert Griffin III]] in a 27–24 win over the Browns on their season finale.<ref name="NFL" />


He finished the regular season with 87 combined tackles, 9 pass deflections, 3½ sacks, and 3 interceptions in 12 starts and 13 games.<ref name="NFL"/> On January 8, 2017, Shazier recorded six combined tackles and intercepted [[Matt Moore (American football)|Matt Moore]], as the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the [[2016 Miami Dolphins season|Miami Dolphins]] in the AFC Wildcard game 30–12.<ref>{{cite web|URL=http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2017010800/2016/POST18/dolphins@steelers| title=NFL Game Center: Week 18-2016: Miami Dolphins @ Pittsburgh Steelers| accessdate=January 9, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref>
He finished the regular season with 87 combined tackles, 9 pass deflections, 3{{frac|1|2}} sacks, and 3 interceptions in 12 starts and 13 games.<ref name="NFL" /> On January 8, 2017, Shazier recorded six combined tackles and intercepted [[Matt Moore (American football)|Matt Moore]], as the Steelers defeated the [[Miami Dolphins]] in the AFC Wildcard game 30–12.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2017010800/2016/POST18/dolphins@steelers| title=NFL Game Center: Week 18-2016: Miami Dolphins @ Pittsburgh Steelers| access-date=January 9, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref> On January 15, 2017, he recorded 5 combined tackles and intercepted [[Alex Smith]] in the Steelers' 18–16 Divisional Round victory over the [[Kansas City Chiefs]].


===2017===
===2017===
[[File:RyanShazier2017.jpg|thumb|left|Shazier in 2017]]
On April 24, 2017, the Steelers picked up the fifth-year option on Shazier's contract.<ref>{{cite web|title=Steelers pick up the 2018 option for Ryan Shazier|url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/04/24/steelers-pick-up-the-2018-option-for-ryan-shazier/|author=Gantt, Darin|website=ProFootballTalk.NBCSports.com|date=April 24, 2017}}</ref>
On April 24, 2017, the Steelers picked up the fifth-year option on Shazier's contract.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/04/24/steelers-pick-up-the-2018-option-for-ryan-shazier/ |title=Steelers pick up the 2018 option for Ryan Shazier |last=Gantt |first=Darin |date=April 24, 2017 |website=ProFootballTalk.NBCSports.com}}</ref> On September 10, 2017, he had one of the best statistical games of his career, tying a career-high with 11 solo tackles and forcing a career-high of two forced fumbles during a 21–18 victory over the Browns.<ref name="NFL" />


====Spinal injury====
As the starting left inside linebacker, he made seven combined tackles in a 20–12 season-opening victory over the [[2017 New York Giants season|New York Giants]]. On September 10, 2017, Shazier had one of the best statistical games of his career, tying a career-high with 11 solo tackles and forcing a career-high of two forced fumbles during a 21–18 victory over the [[2017 Cleveland Browns season|Cleveland Browns]].<ref name="NFL"/>
During a ''[[Monday Night Football]]'' game against the Bengals on December 4, 2017, Shazier sustained what appeared to be a severe back injury after a head-on tackle. The hit left Shazier seemingly unable to move his legs. After stabilization he was taken to the hospital and the next morning revealed that he had sustained a spinal contusion.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Wesseling|first1=Chris|title=Steelers LB Ryan Shazier suffers spinal contusion|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/steelers-lb-ryan-shazier-suffers-back-injury-0ap3000000888327|publisher=NFL|access-date=December 5, 2017}}</ref> On December 7, Shazier underwent spinal stabilization surgery to secure the injured section of spine and to aid in his recovery.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier undergoes spinal stabilization surgery|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/ryan-shazier-undergoes-spinal-stabilization-surgery-0ap3000000889243|publisher=NFL|access-date=December 7, 2017}}</ref> The surgery ended his 2017 season.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier's Spinal Injury Is 'Severe,' NFL Players Union Doctor Says|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/ryan-shazier-spinal-injury_us_5a2a6ff1e4b0a290f04fd7e3|publisher=Huffington Post|access-date=December 8, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Patra|first1=Kevin|title=Steelers place LB Ryan Shazier on injured reserve|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/steelers-place-lb-ryan-shazier-on-injured-reserve-0ap3000000892092|publisher=NFL|access-date=December 12, 2017}}</ref> Despite the injury, Shazier was named to his second Pro Bowl on December 19, 2017.<ref>{{cite web|title=NFL announces 2018 Pro Bowl rosters|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/updated-player-rosters-for-2018-pro-bowl-in-orlando-0ap3000000895772|website=NFL.com|date=December 19, 2017|access-date=December 23, 2017}}</ref> He was ranked 47th by his peers on the [[NFL Top 100 Players of 2018]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBL4YmzuSDY NFL Top 100 Players of 2018 - No. 47 Ryan Shazier]</ref>


On February 28, 2018, Steelers GM [[Kevin Colbert]] announced that Shazier would not be able to play during the 2018 season.<ref>{{cite web|title=Steelers GM says Ryan Shazier won't play in 2018|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000917965/article/steelers-gm-says-ryan-shazier-wont-play-in-2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228202223/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000917965/article/steelers-gm-says-ryan-shazier-wont-play-in-2018|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 28, 2018|website=NFL.com|date=February 28, 2018|access-date=February 28, 2018}}</ref> On April 26, 2018, Shazier walked onto the [[AT&T Stadium]] stage with his fiancée, Michelle Rodriguez, to announce the 28th pick of the [[2018 NFL draft|NFL draft]], [[Terrell Edmunds]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2018/story/_/id/23330513/ryan-shazier-walks-att-stadium-stage-announces-pittsburgh-steelers-pick|title=pick|work=ESPN.com|access-date=April 27, 2018}}</ref> On May 2, the Steelers placed Shazier on the reserve/PUP list, ending his 2018 season.<ref>{{cite web|title=Steelers place LB Ryan Shazier on reserve/PUP list|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/steelers-place-lb-ryan-shazier-on-reserve-pup-list-0ap3000000931044|publisher=NFL|access-date=May 2, 2018}}</ref> On November 30, 2018, Shazier jogged for the first time since his spinal stabilization surgery, according to Steelers linebacker coach [[Joey Porter]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Year after injury Shazier chasing dreams one step at a time|url=https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/steelers/2018/12/02/ryan-shazier-update-injury-one-year-later-steelers-comeback/stories/201811010297|publisher=Pittsburgh Post Gazette|access-date=December 5, 2018}}</ref> On April 29, 2019, the Steelers placed Shazier on the reserve/PUP list, ending his 2019 season.<ref>{{cite web|title=Steelers place Shazier on PUP list|url=https://www.steelers.com/news/steelers-place-shazier-on-pup-list|author=Varley, Teresa|website=Steelers.com|date=April 29, 2019|access-date=April 30, 2019|archive-date=June 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190610175641/https://www.steelers.com/news/steelers-place-shazier-on-pup-list|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Steelers placed Shazier on the reserve/retired list on March 17, 2020, effectively ending his playing career.<ref>{{cite news |author=Varley, Teresa |title=Steelers place Shazier on Reserve/Retired List |url=https://www.steelers.com/news/steelers-place-shazier-on-reserve-retired-list |website=Steelers.com |date=March 17, 2020 |access-date=March 17, 2020 |archive-date=March 17, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200317171058/https://www.steelers.com/news/steelers-place-shazier-on-reserve-retired-list |url-status=dead }}</ref>
During a [[Monday Night Football]] against the [[2017 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]] on December 4th, Shazier suffered what appeared to be a severe back injury after a head-on tackle. The hit left Shazier seemingly unable to move his legs. After stabilization he was taken to the hospital and the next morning revealed that he had suffered a spinal contusion.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Wesseling|first1=Chris|title=Steelers LB Ryan Shazier suffers spinal contusion|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000888327/article/steelers-lb-ryan-shazier-suffers-spinal-contusion|publisher=NFL|accessdate=December 5, 2017}}</ref> On December 7, Shazier underwent spinal stabilization surgery to secure the injured section of spine and to aid in neurological recovery.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier undergoes spinal stabilization surgery|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000889243/article/ryan-shazier-undergoes-spinal-stabilization-surgery|publisher=NFL|accessdate=December 7, 2017}}</ref> The surgery ended Shazier’s season with a conclusion regarding Shazier’s future playing career largely unknown this early in his recovery. <ref>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier’s Spinal Injury Is ‘Severe,’ NFL Players Union Doctor Says|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/ryan-shazier-spinal-injury_us_5a2a6ff1e4b0a290f04fd7e3|publisher=Huffington Post|accessdate=December 8, 2017}}</ref>
On September 9, 2020, Shazier announced his retirement from the NFL.<ref>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier "retiring from the game I love"|url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2020/09/09/ryan-shazier-retiring-from-the-game-i-love/|author=Smith, Michael David|work=Pro Football Talk|publisher=NBC Sports|date=September 9, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Steelers' Shazier retiring 'from the game I love' |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29844650/steelers-ryan-shazier-announces-retirement-nfl |website=ESPN.com |access-date=9 September 2020 |language=en |date=9 September 2020}}</ref>


===NFL statistics===
===Coaching career===

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
In 2024, Shazier returned to the Steelers organization to take a job as an offensive assistant.<ref>{{cite web |title=How Steelers great Ryan Shazier found new career in coaching |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43063081/pittsburgh-steelers-ryan-shazier-linebacker-coaching-retired |author=Pryor, Brooke |website=ESPN.com |access-date=25 December 2024 |date=21 December 2024}}</ref>

==NFL career statistics==
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|-
|-
! rowspan="2"| Year
! Year !! Team !! {{tooltip|GP|Games played}} !! {{tooltip|COMB|Combined tackles}} !! {{tooltip|TOTAL|Total tackles}} !! {{tooltip|AST|Assisted tackles}} !! {{tooltip|SACK|Sacks}} !! {{tooltip|FF|Forced fumbles}} !! {{tooltip|FR|Fumble recoveries}} !! {{tooltip|FR YDS|Fumble return yards}} !! {{tooltip|INT|Interceptions}} !! {{tooltip|IR YDS|Interception return yards}} !! {{tooltip|AVG IR|Average interception return}} !! {{tooltip|LNG|Longest interception return}} !! {{tooltip|TD|Interceptions returned for touchdown}} !! {{tooltip|PD|Passes defensed}}
! rowspan="2"| Team
! colspan="2"| Games
! colspan="4"| Tackles
! colspan="6"| Interceptions
! colspan="3"| Fumbles
|-
! {{abbr|GP|Games played}} !! {{abbr|GS|Games started}} !! {{abbr|Cmb|Combined tackles}} !! {{abbr|Solo|Solo tackles}} !! {{abbr|Ast|Assisted tackles}} !! {{abbr|Sck|Sacks}} !! {{abbr|Int|Interceptions}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Interception return yards}} !! {{abbr|Avg|Average interception return}} !! {{abbr|Lng|Longest interception return}} !! {{abbr|TD|Interceptions returned for touchdown}} !! {{abbr|PD|Passes defensed}} !! {{abbr|FF|Forced fumbles}} !! {{abbr|FR|Fumble recoveries}} !! {{abbr|Yds|Fumble return yards}}
|-
|-
! [[2014 NFL season|2014]] || [[2014 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
! [[2014 NFL season|2014]] !! [[2014 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
| 9 || 36 || 24 || 12 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
| 9 || 5 || 36 || 24 || 12 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
|-
! [[2015 NFL season|2015]] || [[2015 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
! [[2015 NFL season|2015]] !! [[2015 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
| 12 || 87 || 55 || 32 || 3.5 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 4
| 12 || 12 || 87 || 55 || 32 || 3.5 || 1 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 4 || 2 || 1 || 0
|-
|-
! [[2016 NFL season|2016]] || [[2016 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
! [[2016 NFL season|2016]] !! [[2016 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
| 13 || 87 || 55 || 32 || 3.5 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 9
| 13 || 12 || 87 || 55 || 32 || 3.5 || 3 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 9 || 3 || 1 || 0
|-
|- class="sortbottom"
! [[2017 NFL season|2017]] !! [[2017 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
! colspan="2" | Career || 34 || 210 || 134 || 76 || 7.0 || 5 || 0 || 0 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 13
| 12 || 12 || 89 || 68 || 21 || 0.0 || 3 || 2 || 0.7 || 2 || 0 || 11 || 2 || 1 || 3
|}<ref name=ESPN>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier Stats|url=http://www.nfl.com/player/ryanshazier/2543486/profile|publisher=NFL.com| accessdate=January 9, 2017}}</ref>
|-
! [[2018 NFL season|2018]] !! [[2018 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
| 0 || 0 || colspan="15"| ''did not play due to injury''
|-
! [[2019 NFL season|2019]] !! [[2019 Pittsburgh Steelers season|PIT]]
| 0 || 0 || colspan="15"| ''did not play due to injury''
|-
! colspan="2"| Career<ref name=ESPN>{{cite web|title=Ryan Shazier Stats|url=http://www.nfl.com/player/ryanshazier/2543486/profile|work=NFL.com| access-date=January 9, 2017}}</ref> !! 46 !! 41 !! 299 !! 202 !! 97 !! 7.0 !! 7 !! 2 !! 0.3 !! 2 !! 0 !! 25 !! 7 || 3 || 3
|}


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
Shazier suffers from [[alopecia]], a disease which prevents the growth of hair on the body. Throughout his childhood, he was the subject of ridicule and taunting because of this. However, with support and encouragement from his parents, Shazier developed an altruistic temperament to deal with the jabs and name calling.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cleveland.com/osu/index.ssf/2014/01/how_ohio_states_ryan_shazier_o.html|title=How Ohio State's Ryan Shazier overcame constant name-calling and won over Urban Meyer with his 'heart of gold'|author=|date=|publisher=|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref> In May 2017, he wrote of his experiences when his hair unexpectedly began growing back. <ref>https://www.theplayerstribune.com/ryan-shazier-steelers-alopecia/ "Bruh", The Players Tribune, May 23 2017</ref>
Shazier has [[alopecia]], an autoimmune condition which prevents the growth of hair on the body. Throughout his childhood, he was the subject of ridicule and taunting because of this. However, with support and encouragement from his parents, Shazier developed an altruistic temperament to deal with the jabs and name calling.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cleveland.com/osu/index.ssf/2014/01/how_ohio_states_ryan_shazier_o.html|title=How Ohio State's Ryan Shazier overcame constant name-calling and won over Urban Meyer with his 'heart of gold'|access-date=August 22, 2016}}</ref> In May 2017, he wrote of his experiences when his hair unexpectedly began growing back.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theplayerstribune.com/articles/ryan-shazier-steelers-alopecia|title=Bruh|work=The Players Tribune|date=May 23, 2017}}</ref>
On May 3, 2019, Shazier married Michelle Rodriguez. Seventeen months after suffering a spinal injury that doctors feared would leave him paralyzed, Shazier was able to dance at his wedding.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.amomama.com/149541-nfl-player-ryan-shazier-dances-his-weddi.html|title=NFL Player Ryan Shazier Dances at His Wedding after Serious Spine Injury|website=amomama.com|access-date=May 9, 2019}}</ref> Shazier has a son from a previous relationship named Ryan Dean Shazier Jr., and another son born in January 2019 to him and Rodriguez.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://247sports.com/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/Article/Ryan-Shazier-is-expecting-a-second-child-120054749/|title=Ryan Shazier and Family expecting second child|website=247sports.com|date=July 24, 2018}}</ref> In November 2023, Shazier was accused of infidelity by Rodriguez, and was also discovered to have sent text messages to a reported girlfriend.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ryan Shazier's Wife Accuses Ex-NFL Star Of Cheating, Exposes Alleged Texts W/ Woman |url=https://www.tmz.com/2023/11/29/ryan-shazier-wife-accuses-es-nfl-star-cheating-exposes-alleged-texts-with-woman/ |access-date=2023-12-01 |website=TMZ |language=en}}</ref><ref name=textanddivorce /> In January 2024, Shazier filed for divorce.<ref name=textanddivorce>{{cite news|url=https://www.nj.com/giants/2024/01/2-time-nfl-pro-bowl-star-accused-of-sending-how-to-sex-books-to-another-woman-files-for-divorce.html|title=2-time NFL Pro Bowl star — accused of sending how-to sex books to another woman — files for divorce|first=Kevin|last=Manahan|publisher=[[NJ.com]]|date=January 13, 2024|accessdate=January 13, 2024}}</ref>

In the fall of 2019, Shazier returned to college, and graduated in December 2020 at his alma mater, Ohio State University.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Ryan Shazier returns to school, looks to complete his degree at the University of Pittsburgh|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ryan-shazier-returns-to-school-looks-to-complete-his-degree-at-the-university-of-pittsburgh/|access-date=2020-12-19|website=CBSSports.com|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Shazier|first=Ryan|date=December 18, 2020|title=Ryan Shazier on Twitter|url=https://twitter.com/RyanShazier/status/1340043877257011213|website=Twitter}}</ref>

In January 2023, Shazier partnered with the [[Cannabis (drug)|cannabis]] company Organic Remedies to launch a line of cannabis products named Steel City Greats.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Linder |first1=Brian |title=Former Steelers great launches ‘Steel City Greats’ cannabis line |url=https://www.pennlive.com/sports/2023/01/former-steelers-great-launches-steel-city-greats-cannabis-line.html |access-date=January 30, 2023 |work=pennlive.com |date=January 28, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Ryan Shazier on new business venture |url=https://www.wtae.com/article/ryan-shazier-medical-marijuana/42686036 |access-date=January 30, 2023 |work=WTAE |date=January 27, 2023}}</ref> Shazier says that while recovering from his spinal injury, he was seeking a "safe, natural alternative to [[opioid]] pain medications" and that cannabis provided him with a "restorative healing that allowed [him] to manage the pain through a difficult time in [his] life".<ref>{{cite press release |date=January 27, 2023 |title=Organic Remedies Launches New Medical Marijuana Brand Product Line Through Exclusive Partnership With Former Steelers Linebacker Ryan Shazier |url=https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/01/27/2596854/0/en/Organic-Remedies-Launches-New-Medical-Marijuana-Brand-Product-Line-Through-Exclusive-Partnership-With-Former-Steelers-Linebacker-Ryan-Shazier.html |location=Carlisle, PA |agency=GlobeNewswire}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
{{commons}}
*[http://www.steelers.com/team/roster/Ryan-Shazier/7e3347f2-0be9-4413-bca3-b929f03e18a3 Pittsburgh Steelers bio]
*[http://www.ohiostatebuckeyes.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/ryan_shazier_758525.html Ohio State Buckeyes bio]
*[http://www.ohiostatebuckeyes.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/ryan_shazier_758525.html Ohio State Buckeyes bio] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140125095141/http://www.ohiostatebuckeyes.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/ryan_shazier_758525.html |date=January 25, 2014 }}


{{2014 NFL Draft}}
{{2014 NFL Draft}}
{{SteelersFirstPick}}
{{SteelersFirstPick}}
{{Steelers2014DraftPicks}}
{{Steelers2014DraftPicks}}
{{Pittsburgh Steelers roster navbox}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Shazier, Ryan}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Shazier, Ryan}}
[[Category:1992 births]]
[[Category:1992 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:People from Pompano Beach, Florida]]
[[Category:American Conference Pro Bowl players]]
[[Category:Players of American football from Florida]]
[[Category:American football linebackers]]
[[Category:American football linebackers]]
[[Category:Businesspeople in the cannabis industry]]
[[Category:Ohio State Buckeyes football players]]
[[Category:Ohio State Buckeyes football players]]
[[Category:Pittsburgh Steelers players]]
[[Category:American Conference Pro Bowl players]]
[[Category:People from Lauderdale Lakes, Florida]]
[[Category:People from Lauderdale Lakes, Florida]]
[[Category:Players of American football from Pompano Beach, Florida]]
[[Category:Pittsburgh Steelers players]]
[[Category:Plantation High School alumni]]
[[Category:Pittsburgh Steelers coaches]]
[[Category:Coaches of American football from Florida]]

Latest revision as of 02:11, 29 December 2024

Ryan Shazier
refer to caption
Shazier signing autographs in 2014
No. 50
Position:Linebacker
Personal information
Born: (1992-09-06) September 6, 1992 (age 32)
Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, U.S.
Height:6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
Weight:230 lb (104 kg)
Career information
High school:Plantation
(Plantation, Florida)
College:Ohio State (2011–2013)
NFL draft:2014 / round: 1 / pick: 15
Career history
Career highlights and awards
Career NFL statistics
Total tackles:299
Forced fumbles:7
Fumble recoveries:3
Pass deflections:25
Interceptions:7
Interception yards:2
Sacks:7
Stats at Pro Football Reference

Ryan Dean Shazier (/ʃeɪˈzɪər/; born September 6, 1992) is an American former professional football linebacker who played with the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes and was selected by the Steelers in the first round of the 2014 NFL draft.

Shazier had a successful first few seasons in the NFL, including a Pro Bowl appearance in 2016. During the 2017 season, in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Shazier attempted to make a head-first tackle that left him a paraplegic, after which he had to have spinal stabilization surgery and learn to walk again. After spending two seasons on the Steelers' physically unable to perform list, Shazier announced his retirement from football in 2020.

College career

[edit]

Shazier initially committed to play for Urban Meyer at Florida but rescinded his commitment after Meyer resigned as the Gators head coach. He then committed to play under Jim Tressel at Ohio State, but Tressel resigned five months later and was eventually replaced with Urban Meyer.[1]

As a true freshman, Shazier played in every regular season contest and started 3 games. His first start came near the end of the season against Penn State, where he recorded 15 tackles. He started the next two games and ended his season with 57 tackles, 5 tackles for a loss, 3 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.[2]

In 2012, he started all 12 regular season games for Ohio State. Against Penn State, Shazier posted 8 tackles, 2 sacks, and an interception in the third quarter that he returned for the game-deciding touchdown. In a victory against Wisconsin, he had 12 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and he made a game-saving tackle on a goal line stand on fourth and inches. He would finish 2012 leading the Big Ten Conference with 17 tackles for a loss and place second in the league with 115 tackles. Shazier also had 5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles for the season.[2]

Against Indiana in 2013, he posted more than 20 tackles and tied the school record with 16 solo tackles and 5 tackles for loss. He was voted a first-team All-American by the Associated Press, USA Today, ESPN.com, and Sports Illustrated. His 101 solo tackles were the second best in the league and his 143 tackles led the Big Ten. He also had a career-high 6 sacks and 4 forced fumbles.

On January 5, 2014, Shazier announced that he would forgo his senior season and enter the 2014 NFL draft.[3]

Shazier finished his career at Ohio State with 315 tackles, 208 solo tackles, and 14.5 sacks.

College statistics

[edit]
Season Team GP Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
Cmb Solo Ast TfL Sck Int Yds Avg TD PD FF FR Yds
2011 Ohio State 13 58 38 20 5.0 3.0 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0
2012 Ohio State 12 115 70 45 17.0 5.0 1 17 17.0 1 0 0 0 0
2013 Ohio State 14 144 102 42 23.5 7.0 0 0 0.0 0 4 4 0 0
Totals[4] 39 317 210 107 45.5 15.0 1 17 17.0 1 4 5 0 0

Professional career

[edit]

Pre-draft

[edit]

Coming out of Ohio State, many analysts and scouts projected him as an early-to-mid first round draft selection. He was ranked the third best outside linebacker and the 19th best prospect by NFLDraftScout.com.[5] He was invited to the NFL Combine and was able to perform almost all the workouts and positional drills except for the 40, 20, and 10 yard dash. Shazier also participated at Ohio State's Pro Day and was able to finish the drills he didn't complete at the combine. He received numerous positive reviews for his athleticism, agility, production, flexibility, acceleration, strong hands, and lateral movement. Most negative reviews by analysts were based on his lack of ideal size and his under developed vision, instincts, anticipation, and awareness.[1]

Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press
6 ft 1+1⁄8 in
(1.86 m) 		237 lb
(108 kg) 		32+3⁄8 in
(0.82 m) 		10 in
(0.25 m)		 4.38 s 1.56 s 2.58 s 4.21 s 6.91 s 42 in
(1.07 m)		 10 ft 10 in
(3.30 m)		 25 reps
All values from NFL Combine and Ohio State's Pro Day.[6][7]

2014

[edit]
Shazier with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2014

The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Shazier in the first round with the 15th overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft.[8] He was the third linebacker taken in the draft behind Khalil Mack (5th) and Anthony Barr (9th).[9] On June 5, 2014, the Steelers signed Shazier to a fully guaranteed four-year, $9.50 million contract with a signing bonus of $5.23 million.[10]

Shazier began the season as the starting left inside linebacker. He made his professional regular season debut and first career start in the Steelers' home opener against the Cleveland Browns. In his first career game, he made six total tackles (five solo) and a pass deflection. The following week against the Baltimore Ravens, he had 15 total tackles, with 11 of them being solo, in a 6–20 loss. Shazier missed weeks 4–7 of his rookie season with a knee injury. He returned for his first game back from his injury on October 26, 2014, against the Indianapolis Colts. He finished the game with four tackles (two solo tackles). After playing two games, Shazier then injured his ankle and missed another four games.[11] After returning, Shazier made six combined tackles in a 27–17 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on December 24. Following an 11–5 season the Steelers made the playoffs. In his first career playoff game, Shazier made 3 solo tackles and one assist in a 17–30 wild-card loss to the Baltimore Ravens. In his first season, he finished with a total of 36 tackles, 24 solo tackles, and a pass deflection in five starts and eight games.

2015

[edit]

After his rookie season, Shazier returned the next season to again be the starting inside linebacker. On September 10, 2015, Shazier made five solo tackles and two assists in the season opener at the New England Patriots. The next game against the San Francisco 49ers, he left the game with a shoulder injury in the fourth quarter after making a career-high 15 total tackles and 11 solo tackles. He also sacked 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick for his first career sack. Shazier missed weeks 3–6 with nerve damage in his shoulder.[12] After returning, he made five solo tackles, one assist, and a sack in a Week 10 win over the Cleveland Browns. On November 29, 2015, he sustained a concussion and left in the fourth quarter against the Seattle Seahawks. On December 20, 2015, Shazier made three solo tackles, three assists, and three pass deflections in a 34–27 win over the Denver Broncos. He also made his first career interception, after picking off Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler.[13] On January 9, 2016, during the AFC Wildcard game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Shazier stripped the ball from Jeremy Hill with 1:36 left in the fourth quarter. The ball was recovered by Ross Cockrell, leading to the game-winning field goal from Chris Boswell. Shazier finished the 18–16 victory with nine combined tackles and two forced fumbles.[14] He finished the season with 87 combined tackles, 31⁄2 sacks, and an interception in 12 starts and 12 games.

2016

[edit]

Shazier returned to his starting inside linebacker role to begin the 2016 season. He started the Steelers' season-opener against the Washington Redskins and made six combined tackles, two pass deflections, a forced fumble, and intercepted Kirk Cousins as the Steelers routed the Redskins 38–16. The next game, Shazier recorded a season-high 12 combined tackles in a 24–16 victory over the Bengals. He re-injured his knee the following game against the Philadelphia Eagles and was inactive from Weeks 4–6.[15] He made his return in a Week 7 matchup against the New England Patriots and was limited to two assisted tackles and a pass deflection in the 27–16 loss.[13] On November 20, 2016, Shazier racked up seven total tackles, a pass deflection, and sacked Josh McCown for his first of the season, as the Steelers defeated the Cleveland Browns 24–9.[16] On December 25, 2016, he recorded ten combined tackles and intercepted Joe Flacco in a 31–27 playoff clinching victory over the Baltimore Ravens. The next game, Shazier made eight combined tackles and intercepted Robert Griffin III in a 27–24 win over the Browns on their season finale.[13]

He finished the regular season with 87 combined tackles, 9 pass deflections, 31⁄2 sacks, and 3 interceptions in 12 starts and 13 games.[13] On January 8, 2017, Shazier recorded six combined tackles and intercepted Matt Moore, as the Steelers defeated the Miami Dolphins in the AFC Wildcard game 30–12.[17] On January 15, 2017, he recorded 5 combined tackles and intercepted Alex Smith in the Steelers' 18–16 Divisional Round victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

2017

[edit]
Shazier in 2017

On April 24, 2017, the Steelers picked up the fifth-year option on Shazier's contract.[18] On September 10, 2017, he had one of the best statistical games of his career, tying a career-high with 11 solo tackles and forcing a career-high of two forced fumbles during a 21–18 victory over the Browns.[13]

Spinal injury

[edit]

During a Monday Night Football game against the Bengals on December 4, 2017, Shazier sustained what appeared to be a severe back injury after a head-on tackle. The hit left Shazier seemingly unable to move his legs. After stabilization he was taken to the hospital and the next morning revealed that he had sustained a spinal contusion.[19] On December 7, Shazier underwent spinal stabilization surgery to secure the injured section of spine and to aid in his recovery.[20] The surgery ended his 2017 season.[21][22] Despite the injury, Shazier was named to his second Pro Bowl on December 19, 2017.[23] He was ranked 47th by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2018.[24]

On February 28, 2018, Steelers GM Kevin Colbert announced that Shazier would not be able to play during the 2018 season.[25] On April 26, 2018, Shazier walked onto the AT&T Stadium stage with his fiancée, Michelle Rodriguez, to announce the 28th pick of the NFL draft, Terrell Edmunds.[26] On May 2, the Steelers placed Shazier on the reserve/PUP list, ending his 2018 season.[27] On November 30, 2018, Shazier jogged for the first time since his spinal stabilization surgery, according to Steelers linebacker coach Joey Porter.[28] On April 29, 2019, the Steelers placed Shazier on the reserve/PUP list, ending his 2019 season.[29] The Steelers placed Shazier on the reserve/retired list on March 17, 2020, effectively ending his playing career.[30] On September 9, 2020, Shazier announced his retirement from the NFL.[31][32]

Coaching career

[edit]

In 2024, Shazier returned to the Steelers organization to take a job as an offensive assistant.[33]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck Int Yds Avg Lng TD PD FF FR Yds
2014 PIT 9 5 36 24 12 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0 1 0 0 0
2015 PIT 12 12 87 55 32 3.5 1 0 0.0 0 0 4 2 1 0
2016 PIT 13 12 87 55 32 3.5 3 0 0.0 0 0 9 3 1 0
2017 PIT 12 12 89 68 21 0.0 3 2 0.7 2 0 11 2 1 3
2018 PIT 0 0 did not play due to injury
2019 PIT 0 0 did not play due to injury
Career[34] 46 41 299 202 97 7.0 7 2 0.3 2 0 25 7 3 3

Personal life

[edit]

Shazier has alopecia, an autoimmune condition which prevents the growth of hair on the body. Throughout his childhood, he was the subject of ridicule and taunting because of this. However, with support and encouragement from his parents, Shazier developed an altruistic temperament to deal with the jabs and name calling.[35] In May 2017, he wrote of his experiences when his hair unexpectedly began growing back.[36]

On May 3, 2019, Shazier married Michelle Rodriguez. Seventeen months after suffering a spinal injury that doctors feared would leave him paralyzed, Shazier was able to dance at his wedding.[37] Shazier has a son from a previous relationship named Ryan Dean Shazier Jr., and another son born in January 2019 to him and Rodriguez.[38] In November 2023, Shazier was accused of infidelity by Rodriguez, and was also discovered to have sent text messages to a reported girlfriend.[39][40] In January 2024, Shazier filed for divorce.[40]

In the fall of 2019, Shazier returned to college, and graduated in December 2020 at his alma mater, Ohio State University.[41][42]

In January 2023, Shazier partnered with the cannabis company Organic Remedies to launch a line of cannabis products named Steel City Greats.[43][44] Shazier says that while recovering from his spinal injury, he was seeking a "safe, natural alternative to opioid pain medications" and that cannabis provided him with a "restorative healing that allowed [him] to manage the pain through a difficult time in [his] life".[45]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "NFL Draft Profile: Ryan Shazier". NFL.com. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  2. ^ a b "Ohio State Buckeyes Player Bio:Ryan Shazier".
  3. ^ Ward, Austin (January 5, 2014). "OSU's Shazier to NFL; Miller returns". ESPN.com. Retrieved August 22, 2016.
  4. ^ "Ryan Shazier College Stats". Sports Reference. Sports Reference. Retrieved February 28, 2018.
  5. ^ "*Ryan Shazier, DS #3 OLB, Ohio State: 2014 NFL Draft". nfldraftscout.com. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  6. ^ "2014 NFL Draft Profile: Ryan Shazier". Retrieved August 22, 2016.
  7. ^ "*Ryan Shazier – Ohio State, OLB : 2014 NFL Draft Scout Player Profile". Retrieved August 22, 2016.
  8. ^ Bouchette, Ed. "Steelers pick Ohio State LB Ryan Shazier in first round". Post-Gazette. Retrieved August 22, 2016.
  9. ^ "2014 NFL Draft Listing". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved May 15, 2023.
  10. ^ "Sportrac.com: Ryan Shazier contract". sportrac.com. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  11. ^ Alper, Josh (November 30, 2014). "Ryan Shazier will miss another game". NBC Sports. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
  12. ^ Nathan, Alec. "Ryan Shazier injury update:the linebacker's shoulder injury and return". Bleacher Report. Retrieved December 30, 2015.
  13. ^ a b c d e "NFL Player Profile:Ryan Shazier". NFL.com. Retrieved December 29, 2015.
  14. ^ "NFL Game Center: Post 18-2015: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals". NFL.com. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  15. ^ "Steeler's injury report: Ryan Shazier's triumphant return to practice couldn't come at a better time". behindthesteelcurtain.com. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  16. ^ "NFL Game Center: Week 11-2016: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns". NFL.com. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  17. ^ "NFL Game Center: Week 18-2016: Miami Dolphins @ Pittsburgh Steelers". NFL.com. Retrieved January 9, 2017.
  18. ^ Gantt, Darin (April 24, 2017). "Steelers pick up the 2018 option for Ryan Shazier". ProFootballTalk.NBCSports.com.
  19. ^ Wesseling, Chris. "Steelers LB Ryan Shazier suffers spinal contusion". NFL. Retrieved December 5, 2017.
  20. ^ "Ryan Shazier undergoes spinal stabilization surgery". NFL. Retrieved December 7, 2017.
  21. ^ "Ryan Shazier's Spinal Injury Is 'Severe,' NFL Players Union Doctor Says". Huffington Post. Retrieved December 8, 2017.
  22. ^ Patra, Kevin. "Steelers place LB Ryan Shazier on injured reserve". NFL. Retrieved December 12, 2017.
  23. ^ "NFL announces 2018 Pro Bowl rosters". NFL.com. December 19, 2017. Retrieved December 23, 2017.
  24. ^ NFL Top 100 Players of 2018 - No. 47 Ryan Shazier
  25. ^ "Steelers GM says Ryan Shazier won't play in 2018". NFL.com. February 28, 2018. Archived from the original on February 28, 2018. Retrieved February 28, 2018.
  26. ^ "pick". ESPN.com. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  27. ^ "Steelers place LB Ryan Shazier on reserve/PUP list". NFL. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  28. ^ "Year after injury Shazier chasing dreams one step at a time". Pittsburgh Post Gazette. Retrieved December 5, 2018.
  29. ^ Varley, Teresa (April 29, 2019). "Steelers place Shazier on PUP list". Steelers.com. Archived from the original on June 10, 2019. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  30. ^ Varley, Teresa (March 17, 2020). "Steelers place Shazier on Reserve/Retired List". Steelers.com. Archived from the original on March 17, 2020. Retrieved March 17, 2020.
  31. ^ Smith, Michael David (September 9, 2020). "Ryan Shazier "retiring from the game I love"". Pro Football Talk. NBC Sports.
  32. ^ "Steelers' Shazier retiring 'from the game I love'". ESPN.com. September 9, 2020. Retrieved September 9, 2020.
  33. ^ Pryor, Brooke (December 21, 2024). "How Steelers great Ryan Shazier found new career in coaching". ESPN.com. Retrieved December 25, 2024.
  34. ^ "Ryan Shazier Stats". NFL.com. Retrieved January 9, 2017.
  35. ^ "How Ohio State's Ryan Shazier overcame constant name-calling and won over Urban Meyer with his 'heart of gold'". Retrieved August 22, 2016.
  36. ^ "Bruh". The Players Tribune. May 23, 2017.
  37. ^ "NFL Player Ryan Shazier Dances at His Wedding after Serious Spine Injury". amomama.com. Retrieved May 9, 2019.
  38. ^ "Ryan Shazier and Family expecting second child". 247sports.com. July 24, 2018.
  39. ^ "Ryan Shazier's Wife Accuses Ex-NFL Star Of Cheating, Exposes Alleged Texts W/ Woman". TMZ. Retrieved December 1, 2023.
  40. ^ a b Manahan, Kevin (January 13, 2024). "2-time NFL Pro Bowl star — accused of sending how-to sex books to another woman — files for divorce". NJ.com. Retrieved January 13, 2024.
  41. ^ "Ryan Shazier returns to school, looks to complete his degree at the University of Pittsburgh". CBSSports.com. Retrieved December 19, 2020.
  42. ^ Shazier, Ryan (December 18, 2020). "Ryan Shazier on Twitter". Twitter.
  43. ^ Linder, Brian (January 28, 2023). "Former Steelers great launches 'Steel City Greats' cannabis line". pennlive.com. Retrieved January 30, 2023.
  44. ^ "Ryan Shazier on new business venture". WTAE. January 27, 2023. Retrieved January 30, 2023.
  45. ^ "Organic Remedies Launches New Medical Marijuana Brand Product Line Through Exclusive Partnership With Former Steelers Linebacker Ryan Shazier" (Press release). Carlisle, PA. GlobeNewswire. January 27, 2023.
[edit]
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