Ryan Shazier injury update timeline: Tracing recovery efforts of Steelers linebacker

Ryan Shazier thrilled fans during Friday's workout by walking unaided across one of the fields at St. Vincent College. His steps, while unsteady at times, provided more proof that he is making progress in his recovery.

Today was a great day. The team had a wonderful practice. But I also got to enjoy the fans‼️ If you were able to make it to the stadium, here if a little bit of what happened‼️ I promise you the lord is not done working yet‼️ 🤫🙏🏽💯 Keep Shalieving 5️⃣0️⃣ #shalieve🙏 pic.twitter.com/LHiRXHa5gN

— Ryan Shazier (@RyanShazier) August 4, 2018

DeCOURCY: Return to Latrobe shows much has, hasn't changed

The Steelers linebacker announced on Twitter that he and his fiancee, Michelle Rodriguez, are expecting their first child together. Shazier and Rodriguez are already raising one child together, RJ — Shazier's son from a previous relationship. 

"The plan (G)od has placed around this family is very bright. So we're so excited to let everyone know we have a wonderful blessing coming and I can't wait to welcome another beautiful Shazier," Shazier wrote. Shazier and Rodriguez said the baby is due in January.

Shazier has been rehabbing from a serious back injury suffered in December that required spinal stabilization surgery and left him in a wheelchair. He made a miraculous walk across the stage at April's NFL draft to announce Pittsburgh's pick with Rodriguez by his side.

The Steelers placed Shazier on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list in May before converting his salary to a bonus. He won't play in 2018, but has said his dream is to play football again.

Ryan Shazier isn't looking to retire.

The Steelers linebacker made that clear when he addressed the media for the first time since suffering a serious spine injury with an update regarding his ongoing recovery.

Shazier walked to the podium with a cane and first thanked those who have supported him, saying he received so many letters and gifts that he couldn't even read them all. He assured he is doing "a lot better than expected" and is taking his rehabilitation "one day at a time" with the goal of eventually making his return to the football field.

"My dream is to come back and play football again," Shazier said. "I have that in the back of my mind during rehab and I'm trying to stay positive every single day.

"I would be a liar if I said there haven't been any bad days … but if there were 100 days, probably … two of them are bad."

Shazier, who suffered a serious back injury in December that required spinal stabilization surgery and left him in a wheelchair, acknowledged that the game comes with risks but said he isn't worried about the possibility of being re-injured if he gets the opportunity to play again.

The Steelers placed Shazier on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list but converted $8.26 million of the linebacker's $8.718 million base salary for 2018 into a signing bonus last month.

Shazier, 25, won't be back in action until next season at the earliest but is expected to be seen on the sidelines helping his coaches and teammates in the meantime.

Speaking to more than 1,000 students at a Senior Signing Day in Pittsburgh, Ryan Shazier told them, among other things, to never give up on their dreams. 

Ryan Shazier won't play a down in 2018, but he's still getting paid.

In a remarkable gesture, the Steelers converted $8.26 million of the linebacker's $8.718 million base salary for 2018 into a signing bonus.

According to ESPN, which cited an unidentified source, Shazier will receive the money right away.

In an anticipated move, the Steelers placed Shazier on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform list on Wednesday. He won't count against the 90-man offseason roster but is still expected to be involved with the team.

Shazier, 25, is still rehabbing from a serious back injury suffered in December that required spinal stabilization surgery and left him in a wheelchair. Still, he's been seen doing pull-ups at the gym and hyping the crowd at PPG Paints Arena during Penguins games.

He most recently made an inspiring walk across the stage at the NFL Draft last week to announce the team's first-round pick, which will be remembered as one of the most notable moments in draft history.

Baker Mayfield may have earned the spotlight at the NFL Draft, but Ryan Shazier stole the show.

The Steelers linebacker made a miraculous walk across the stage at AT&T Stadium on Thursday to announce the team's first-round pick (No. 28), making for one of the most memorable moments in draft history.

What a moment for Ryan Shazier 🙌🙌🙌🙌 pic.twitter.com/YJ69wLrg7k

— Laces Out (@LacesOutShow) April 27, 2018

Shazier is still rehabbing from a serious spinal injury suffered in a Dec. 4 game against the Bengals that required spinal stabilization surgery and left him in a wheelchair. Still, the setback hasn't stopped the two-time Pro Bowl player from attending various sporting events, including the Penguins' first-round Stanley Cup playoff games at PPG Paints Arena.

The 25-year-old won't play in 2018 but will remain a part of the team next season with the hope of eventually making a comeback from the injury.

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The Steelers selected Terrell Edmunds, a safety out of Virginia Tech. His brother Tremaine, an inside linebacker who also played at Virginia Tech, was selected by the Bills earlier with the No. 16 overall pick.

"It's a blessing for my family, it's a blessing for my city, it's a blessing for my school," Terrell Edmunds said on ESPN. "I'm thankful for everyone supporting us along the way.

"I'm filling with so much excitement I can barely speak."

The pair made history by becoming the first brothers to both be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft.

By Bill Bender

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ryan Shazier keeps moving in the right direction.

Shazier attended an NCAA Tournament game in Pittsburgh last month. He led cheers at the Pittsburgh Penguins' NHL playoff game on Wednesday. And on Saturday, Shazier served as an honorary coach at Ohio State's Scarlet vs. Gray game. Four months after suffering a career-threatening spinal injury on Monday Night Football against the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals, the Steelers linebacker stood up, waved his arms and embraced Malcolm Jenkins to a loud ovation.

That provided the most heart-warming moment on a rainy afternoon at Ohio Stadium. Earlier, Shazier wore a "Silver Bullets" T-shirt and spoke with reporters from a golf cart. While Shazier didn't go too far into the details of his recovery, the former Buckeyes linebacker said attending sporting events in Pittsburgh and Columbus has aided his recovery process.

👏😁 Spring Game Salute to our Buckeye Legends and Scarlet & Gray Captains -- @MalcolmJenkins & @RyanShazier #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/U9RfmYl7l2

— Ohio State Buckeyes (@OhioStAthletics) April 14, 2018

"I think it helps out a lot," Shazier said. "At the end of the day, when somebody is going through something, whenever you are allowed to get back to your regular routine it allows you to feel like yourself. I feel like that definitely helps me out a lot just to get back on my feet and get back moving."  

Shazier suffered a spinal injury against the Bengals on Dec. 4 and underwent spinal stabilization surgery a week later. Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said Shazier won't play in the 2018 season, but the star linebacker continues to persevere on the comeback trail. Shazier singled out Ohio State and Steelers fans for promoting his #Shalieve initiative, but he said the support has extended across the country. Coaches, fans, and so much more. 

"It's been outstanding support," Shazier said. "I still get support to this day from the day I got hurt. There has been so much mail that I can't read it all. I'm grateful for all the support and all the prayers.

"I'm feeling a lot better than I was in December and every day I'm getting better," he said. "I'm just thanking the Lord and talking to him and thanking everybody who is here for me."

Shazier felt the rush of memories with another spring game in Columbus, too. He starred at linebacker for the Buckeyes from 2011-13. He totaled 144 tackles and 23.5 tackles for loss in 2013 before Pittsburgh selected him with the No. 15 pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. 

When Ohio State coach Urban Meyer reached out to see if Shazier wanted to be an honorary coach, there was no hesitation.

"One of my favorite players of all time, Ryan Shazier, is going through a little bit of a tough time,” Meyer said after the game. "He was able to share that with people he cares very deeply about, Buckeye Nation and his teammates and coaches."

Shazier gladly accepted — and stayed in his comfort zone at The Shoe. 

"It really means a lot to be back here at Ohio State," he said. "The people have always been supportive of me even before I got injured and especially now. Just the fact I could be here and supporting them back means a lot."

With that in mind, Shazier intends to keep moving. It's an inspirational story worth following, and the linebacker should make more appearances on the comeback trail. He was asked about a wristband he wears as a constant reminder every day. 

"I'm a walking miracle," Shazier said. "I'm going to come back stronger than ever and be back on my feet."

Expect him to keep walking in the right direction. 

Ryan Shazier continues to proudly progress with his recovery.

The Steelers linebacker pumped up the Pittsburgh crowd Wednesday before the puck drop of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs series between the Penguins and Flyers.

Shazier stood to greet the PPG Paints Arena audience before leading a "let’s go Pens" chant, which got the building roaring with excitement.

RETWEET TO SUPPORT @RyanShazier #Shalieve pic.twitter.com/k2VHDdjA2r

— SteelerNation (@SteeIerNation) April 12, 2018

The Penguins went on to rout the rival Flyers with a 7-0 shutout victory led by captain Sidney Crosby, who earned a natural hat trick that brought his playoff goal total to 60.

Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy spent some time with Ryan Shazier recently and on Saturday, April 7, posted a photo of himself and the Steelers linebacker on instagram.

 

So much respect fam ... Nfl get ready my boy coming back REAL SOON #aTrueFighter

A post shared by Lesean Mccoy (@shadymccoy) on Apr 7, 2018 at 1:48pm PDT

Ryan Shazier will get all the time he needs to recover from his devastating injury.

Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert on Monday said he places "no ceiling" on the linebacker's return from spinal surgery and is optimistic about his comeback when he's ready to get back on the field.

"There is no ceiling in Ryan's recovery. He aggressively approaches it every day," Colbert said, via ESPN. "We support him in every way possible in that endeavor. Where that leads, only he will know and he will determine further down the road. His approach, his mental approach. I can't tell you how impressive an inspiration he is to us."

After earning $9.56 million over his first four NFL seasons, Shazier is set to count $8.7 million against the Steelers' salary cap after the team exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie contract last year. Although he won't play in 2018, Colbert confirmed there will be some sort of designation for Shazier so he can still remain a part of the team next season.

"The kid had a devastating injury," Colbert said. "His willingness to not only aggressively rehab but to put himself out there and ask for no pity, again that's all part of the recovery process that I think, he helps us as much as we help him."

By Thomas Lott

Ryan Shazier will be involved with the Steelers in 2018 despite the fact he will not play due to a spinal-cord injury sustained last season, and Wednesday, Pittsburgh gave a glimpse into how the Pro Bowl linebacker may factor into the team's plans.

The 25-year-old was with Steelers coaches at Pitt's pro day helping time 40-yard dashes. He also said he was getting some pointers on how to evaluate players.

"Teaching me how to evaluate!!!" he wrote on Instagram.

While Shazier will not play for the the Steelers this season, he will be paid $8.7 million in the final year of his contract. 

By Kenan Goyette

Ryan Shazier is clearly confident in his recovery from the severe spinal injury he suffered in December.

At a gala event Saturday, Shazier expressed confidence that he'll take the field again.

“I’m taking it one step at a time, but I know the Lord,” Shazier said, per CBS Pittsburgh. “He has a plan for me, and I definitely feel like I’ll be back out there.”

Most of Shazier's time since suffering the injury has been spent in a wheelchair, but that hasn't stopped him from making public appearances around Pittsburgh at various sporting events.

The Steelers linebacker even posted a video of himself working out during his recovery.

Ryan Shazier is an AMAZING example that the right attitude can get you thru the toughest times. #Shalieve pic.twitter.com/olJD0Smnzm

— Bob Pompeani (@KDPomp) March 16, 2018

“Every day is tough, but we just try to take one step at a time in this journey,” Shazier said. “I know a lot of people say I’m an inspiration to them, but honestly the support I’ve been getting has allowed me to just stay positive and be able to push through every day also.”

The road to recovery will likely be a long one for Shazier, but it's certainly a positive sign to see him working out like he is.

By  Kirstie Chiappelli

Ryan Shazier's anticipated return will have to wait until 2019 at the earliest.

Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert on Wednesday revealed the injured linebacker won't play in 2018 but there will be some sort of designation for him so he can still remain a part of the team.

"Ryan Shazier won’t play in 2018. He knows that. We know that," Colbert told reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Shazier is still recovering from a serious spinal injury suffered in a Dec. 4 game against the Bengals that required spinal stabilization surgery on Dec. 6. He was released from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute earlier this month.

Shazier, 25, will enter the fifth year on his initial contract next season. After earning $9.56 million over his first NFL seasons, the two-time Pro Bowler will count $8.7 million against the Steelers' salary cap after the team exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie contract last year.

By Joe Rodgers

Ryan Shazier isn't giving up on his dreams. 

Shazier, who is still recovering from a back injury in early December, said on a podcast with Steelers teammate Roosevelt Nix published Tuesday that he is "the best linebacker ever" and still hopes to make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

"I gotta get back," said Shazier, who has been recovering from a spinal stabilization surgery in December. “Since I’ve been in college, I really wanted to go to the Hall of Fame. I still want to go to the Hall of Fame. All my goals are like making me want to go to the Hall of Fame.

“I have a paper that has all the Hall of Fame linebackers. I’ve got to be one of the best players. I really feel I have the ability...I’m still reaching for that Hall of Fame because I really feel I’m the best linebacker ever. I just got to be back out there so everybody can see it. You know what I’m saying?”

Shazier told Nix that he tries to get at least "12 tackles, a pick, a forced fumble and a touchdown" every game and is doing rehab for his injury at least two hours per day, five times a week to get back to that point. 

Despite limited mobility after his surgery, Shazier made appearances at Heinz Field, visited teammates at practice in January, and stood up at a Penguins game to show his progress from an injury that slowed his lower-body movement.

“Right now I’m reading a book and it’s basically saying trust the process," Shazier said. "I’m really trusting the process. I know the end goal. So I’m taking every step of the way, I’m giving everything I got. The therapists are like, ‘Man this is crazy; I’ve never seen anyone work this hard.’ They almost see progression every day.

“They say like some progressions they see week-to-week , they see from me day-to-day. I’m really trying to come back and still be a Pro Bowler. I’m sorry, because I feel I got snubbed this year for All-Pro even though I got hurt. But I feel like my stats are as good as those who made it.”

By Gabe Fernandez

Ryan Shazier’s recovery from a potentially career-ending back injury has served as an inspiration for the Steelers organization.

Steelers GM Kevin Colbert told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler in mid-February that Shazier has been involved in meetings with coaches and front office staff, where he’s been learning “personnel stuff,” and working out in Steelers facilities. His attitude, however, has been the true standout for the GM.

“But the great thing about it is Ryan does as much as we do for him because the way he works at this and the attitude that he has shown and his rehabilitation, it’s really uplifting,” Colbert said. “Never once has he said, ‘why me?’”

Steelers GM Kevin Colbert details Ryan Shazier’s full workload at the Steelers facility each day. “Never once has he said, ‘why me?’” pic.twitter.com/4SFOE78Hsy

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 16, 2018

While there’s no indication of whether or not Shazier will return to the football field again, his outlook on his current situation is inspiring.

By Bob Hille

Penguins fans greeted Ryan Shazier with a standing ovation, and the Steelers linebacker stunned them in return.

He stood up himself, with a bit of assistance.

Shazier, who suffered a severe spine injury that required stabilization surgery in early December, "stole the show" at the Pens' home game Tuesday against the Golden Knights when he was shown on the video scoreboard at 16:01 of the first period, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. 

"A well-deserved STANDING ovation for this guy," the Penguins tweeted, along with the video.

Shazier, who reportedly has regained feeling in his legs and is walking with assistance, was released last week from a Pittsburgh-area rehab center.

By Kirstie Chiappelli

Ryan Shazier is setting the record straight. The Steelers linebacker took to Twitter on Monday to clarify the status of his rehabilitation after a report Sunday stated he had "regained movement in his legs" and "begun a regular walking routine."

Shazier confirmed a report from NBC Sports' Michele Tafoya was "100 percent correct" in specifying that his lower-body movement remains a work in progress.

"Although he does have movement in his legs, he is not walking on his own," Tafoya wrote. "Shazier needs assistance from a walker or other people or to support him in his rehabilitation walking, which remains a struggle."

Shazier suffered a serious spinal injury in a Dec. 4 game against the Bengals and has been recovering from a spinal stabilization surgery he underwent Dec. 6. He was released from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute last Thursday.

Shazier made appearances at Heinz Field for games against the Patriots and Browns in December and visited his teammates at practice in January during his recovery. His father, Vernon, said his son reclaimed feeling in his legs last month.

By Kirstie Chiappelli

Ryan Shazier has taken an encouraging step in his recovery.

The Steelers linebacker on Thursday was released from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Rehabilitation Institute and is headed to an outpatient rehab facility to continue his treatment.

Shazier also shared a photo of himself and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger on Instagram as he annouced his discharge and thanked those who have supported him throughout his journey in a lengthy statement.

"I’ve had a lot of 1st downs at UPMC, but you know being the defensive guy I am, my mind is on 3 and out. With that being said, I want everyone to know that I’m moving on to the next step of the process. Today’s a big day for me as I’m officially being released from the hospital," Shazier wrote.

"I want everyone to know that all of the support and prayers are absolutely being answered. I will continue to work hard and push and find a way back. #Shalieve#Steelers #prayfor50"

Shazier suffered a serious spinal injury in a game on Dec. 4 against the Bengals and has been recovering from a spinal stabilization surgery, which he underwent on Dec. 6.

Despite Shazier's struggles, his father, Vernon, said his son regained feeling in his legs last month.

Shazier made appearances at Heinz Field for games against the Patriots and Browns in December and visited his teammates at practice in January. He shared a photo of himself in a wheelchair on the sidelines, writing that he's "far from done" with football and working "day-by-day" to get better.

By Bob Hille

Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier wasn’t on the field Sunday at the Pro Bowl, but he was well-represented.

Ben Roethlisberger tweeted a photo of his cleats for the game that honored both former Steelers chairman Dan Rooney and Shazier.

Shazier tweeted his appreciation.

Earlier in the day, Roethlisberger spoke to Shazier through ESPN.

"There's one guy that's supposed to be here that's not here but hopefully is watching, and that's Ryan,” Roethlisberger said (via ESPN.com). “Ryan, we love you, we've got you on our cleats, we've got you on our shirts. We're loving you, buddy.”

Roethlisberger and the other eight Steelers in Orlando for the game wore black “Shalieve” T-shirts under their jerseys.

By Sporting News

Ryan Shazier's father did an interview with CBS4 Miami that aired on Jan. 22, in which he revealed the chilling details of his first conversation with his son after the injury and how the family is dealing with the situation.

“He said, ‘Daddy, pray for me, I can’t feel my legs,’” Vernon Shazier told Jim Berry, adding later that he travels from Florida to Pittsburgh each week to visit with his son.

The Steelers linebacker played his high school ball in Broward County, Fla., before heading to Ohio State and then being selected by Pittsburgh in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. His father was once a chaplain for the Miami Dolphins and is relying on his faith during these trying times.

“I’ve been preaching and teaching faith for 22 years,” he said. “That’s what I’ve been feeding people. I say I’m just eating my own stew right now.”

While the family remains optimistic and positive about Shazier returning to the field, Vernon was candid when asked about what will happen if his son doesn't fully recover.

“If he can’t play anymore, then God has a plan for him,” he told Berry. “God has a plan.”

Watch the entire interview here.

In the wee morning hours of the NFL conference title games, a competition Ryan Shazier's Pittsburgh Steelers came a win short of qualifying for, the linebacker sent out a 2 a.m. ET tweet with words of inspiration.

When I mean perfect timing!!! The lord always knows what he is doing. Amen 🙏🏽 https://t.co/0aaow9kGHX

— Ryan Shazier (@RyanShazier) January 21, 2018

By Sporting News

The day before his team appeared in a home playoff game against the Jacksonville Jaguars — a contest the Steelers would go on to lose, to the shock of many — Ryan Shazier revealed an inpirational t-shirt he and his family helped design.

“I’ve fought my hardest to be a leader and a force on the field for Pittsburgh, bleeding black and gold on the front lines," he wrote on his Instagram account that day. "Pittsburgh has embraced me — and I have embraced it back. It truly is a place like no other.

"Over the last few weeks, my family and I have tasked Shop 412 with a very important job — to create a design with me that would show our city how much drive and passion I have for it. I wanted to make something that could serve as a representation of my spirit, of my inner fight, and also be a creative way to bring some fire to my squad and to our fans as we head proudly into these playoffs.”

Some of his teammates sported the shirt during warmups on game day, with him in attendance.

#SHALIEVE pic.twitter.com/Q48FqcCfwh

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) January 14, 2018

On the same day, this Andrea Kremer feature on Shazier ran.

The 2017 season wasn't what Ryan Shazier expected. But his journey isn't over.

He continues to inspire his @Steelers teammates as they enter the #NFLPlayoffs. #SHALIEVE (via @Andrea_Kremer) pic.twitter.com/pILBGzu3Js

— NFL (@NFL) January 13, 2018

Would the Steelers have gotten past Jacksonville with Shazier on the field? There's no telling, but Gene Collier of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette wrote this after the 45-42 setback: "With Shazier in the lineup, the Steelers allowed two 100-yard rushers through 12 games. They’ve allowed three in the five games since. With Shazier in the lineup, they allowed 17.75 points per game. Without him, they’ve allowed 28 points per game."

Ryan Shazier is leaving the door open for his return. The Steelers linebacker on Wednesday shared a photo on Instagram of himself in a wheelchair at the team's facility as he provided the latest update in his recovery journey.

Shazier thanked those who have helped him throughout his spinal rehabilitation and revealed that he has resumed taking part in team activities after an extended absence as he works "day-by-day" to get better.

"I want to thank the Lord for the first downs that he has been allowing me to achieve," Shazier wrote. "The touchdown is going to come in his timing, but today was a first down. I was finally able to make it to practice with my teammates. It’s great to be back for practices and meetings. Just to be able to feel a part of it means the world. So I’m working harder than I ever have to get back. I've been making strides over the past month and continue to make progress.

"Taking it day-by-day, but I’m far from done. The Lord has not finished his work yet. I want to say thank you to the fans and Steelers Nation for the prayers. If it wasn’t for my family, friends and your prayers I wouldn’t be were I am now. They have lifted me and my family through this journey and I ask for you to continue praying for me, as I continue to work daily on improving my health. #Shalieve#Steelers#prayfor50"

Shazier suffered a serious spinal injury in a Dec. 4 game against the Bengals and has been recovering from a spinal stabilization surgery Dec. 6.

Despite Shazier's struggles, his father, Vernon, said his son is improving and has regained feeling in his legs.

Arthur Weinstein

Ryan Shazier's father says the injured player now has feeling in his legs, according to a report from Pittsburgh's WPXI 11 News .

Vernon Shazier told WPXI that his son is improving.

"He's making progress daily," he said. "He's a long way from where he was on Monday night."

On whether Ryan Shazier is walking yet: "I don't want to go into it a whole lot," his father said. 

The Steelers have not elaborated on the surgery Ryan Shazier underwent, or his prognosis. But outside analysts have said if it involved a fusion procedure, full recovery could take up to six months.

Vernon Shazier got emotional when recalling that moment on Dec. 4 when his son called him after the injury.

"He said, Daddy, pray for me. I can't feel my legs,'" Vernon Shazier said.

“When your child is laying there in a situation like this, I was hoping and wishing i could switch positions with him."

Ryan Shazier made his first public appearance recently at Heinz Field, attending the Steelers' game against the Patriots.

Vernon Shazier, who is an NFL chaplain, told WPXI that faith is helping the family through the crisis.

"I laid my hands on the shoulder of the doctor and I prayed for him," he said.

By Bob Hille

Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier, who continues to recover from a serious spinal injury suffered Dec. 4, and his father told ESPN on Thursday that he is showing "some improvement that is encouraging" and the family continues to rely on its deep faith.

"We're taking it one day at a time," Vernon Shazier said in an interview with the network. "We do not know what tomorrow holds. It's a [daily] journey we don't know. But I know God is getting the message."

Shazier underwent "spinal stabilization surgery" Dec. 6 in Pittsburgh, after being transferred by medivac helicopter from Cincinnati, where he was injured in the Steelers' game against the Bengals.

Shazier made an emotional appearance Sunday at Heinz Field for his team's big game against the Patriots, his first trip out of the hospital since his surgery.​

Vernon Shazier said before his interview with ESPN that he couldn't get into specifics of his son's injury. The Steelers have not elaborated in detail what Shazier's surgery entailed nor about his prognosis.

"We're praying for healing and keeping our mind and faith strong. We know we're in a deep valley, but we do not feel alone," said Vernon Shazier, an NFL chaplain who added: "It's easy to be faithful in a storm, but we're not talking about a drizzle. We're talking about a hurricane, a category 5 [hurricane], lots of metaphors to describe it."

On Tuesday, Shazier was announced as a Pro Bowl representative for his 89 tackles, three interceptions and two forced fumbles through 12 games and his teammates who've visited him say he's eager to talk football strategy for the Steelers as they look to the playoffs.

Meanwhile, his father says Tuesday's announcement ticks on box for his son.

"Ryan had two goals going into the year — a Pro Bowl and a Super Bowl," Vernon said. "He's been able to check one off the list. He's hoping to check the next one off."

By Sara Jane Harris

Ryan Shazier did not want to miss the AFC game of the year. The Steelers linebacker, who suffered a spinal injury against the Bengals in Week 13, was in a suite for his team's game against the Patriots on Sunday at Heinz Field.

.@RyanShazier is here.

And this is what happened.#SHALIEVE pic.twitter.com/qnLvw7Foya

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) December 17, 2017

Shazier appeared to be good spirits as he smiled and waved a Terrible Towel.

The 25-year-old is recovering from spinal stabilization surgery.

Statement from UPMC Neurosurgeons & #Steelers Team Physicians on Ryan Shazier pic.twitter.com/nE7xgsx7Tx

— Burt Lauten (@SteelersPRBurt) December 7, 2017

He was placed on injured reserve Tuesday and will miss the remainder of the season.

The Steelers have not elaborated on what Shazier's surgery entailed nor what his prognosis is.

He shared this message to concerned fans on Twitter after the injury:

Thank you for the prayers. Your support is uplifting to me and my family. #SHALIEVE

— Ryan Shazier (@RyanShazier) December 5, 2017

Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier is still in the hospital in Pittsburgh, but he has begun rehab, according to a statement from University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

"Ryan Shazier remains hospitalized at UPMC recovering from the spinal stabilization surgery performed last week by UPMC neurosurgeons and Steelers team physicians, Drs. David Okonkwo and Joseph Maroon," the statement read. "Mr. Shazier has started physical rehabilitation as part of his recovery process."

An update on @steelers Ryan Shazier. Further updates will be provided by UPMC. https://t.co/DMAfvWJKpG pic.twitter.com/1M4oleJ2mL

— UPMC (@UPMCnews) December 14, 2017

Pittsburgh placed the linebacker on injured reserved Tuesday, Dec. 12. He will obviously be out for the season, but it remains to be seen for how long he'll be out.

By Arthur Weinstein

Four days after undergoing spinal surgery, Ryan Shazier is showing "gradual improvement," according to a report Sunday by ESPN's Adam Schefter. 

Schefter says sources report that doctors are "controlling and limiting" Shazier's movement as he continues his recovery.

The team announced Thursday that Shazier had undergone spinal stabilization surgery the day before in Pittsburgh.

Although the team did not provide details of the surgery, or Shazier's prognosis, such procedures typically involve fusing vertebra together with rods and screws. Dr. David Chao, an orthopedic surgeon who writes on medical issues for the San Diego Union-Tribune, wrote Thursday that the surgery is not unexpected, but "does not rule Shazier out from football in the future."

"But without a doubt he is done for the season. Fusion takes 4-6 months for recovery," Chao wrote.

“The best-case scenario of a spinal cord concussion and early recovery are gone. Let's hope for the next-best possibility of a great result from surgery and full neurologic recovery over the next 4 to 6 months.”

The Steelers community and sports world at large has been sending get-well wishes via social media to Shazier ever since he suffered his injury making a tackle in Monday night's game against the Bengals. Steelers coaches and players told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review they're more concerned about Shazier's ability to lead a normal life than his football career.

“I'm not worried about him playing for us again,” Steelers defensive coordinator Keith Butler said. “I'm more worried about him. … The thing that we're hopeful for and prayerful for is he comes back and is going to be OK. The football stuff is secondary. His life is a lot more important than being a football player.”

Fellow Steelers linebacker Arthur Moats told the Tribune-Review, “After seeing him on the field like that, I just want to see him walking. That was scary to see happen.”

The Steelers had to battle back Sunday night to clinch their third AFC North title in four seasons. After blowing a 14-point lead, Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown engineered two scoring drives in the final 3:15 to pull off a remarkable comeback which couldn't have happened without a key defensive stop. 

After the game, the Steelers made sure their defensive leader was part of the celebration although he couldn't be at Heinz Field. 

Ryan Shazier was able to FaceTime with his Steelers teammates from his hospital room as he continues to recover from spinal stabilization surgery. 

Ryan Shazier facetiming the #Steelers after tonight’s victory from the hospital. Via Ryan Shazier’s girlfriend’s Instagram. pic.twitter.com/UXrYKsn5ba

— Daniel Valente (@StatsGuyDaniel) December 11, 2017

#SHALIEVE

🎥: @RyanShazier pic.twitter.com/T3bN1DB8M5

— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) December 11, 2017

Steelers players plan to visit Shazier in the hospital to present him with a game ball, and AFC North champions apparel.

Cam Heyward said the #Steelers FaceTimed Ryan Shazier to tell him he got the game ball and he’ll get an AFC North hat and shirt tonight.

— Missi Matthews (@missi_matthews) December 11, 2017

Several Steelers confirmed the entire team FaceTimed with Ryan Shazier in the locker room after the game. “It’s something I’ll never forget,” DE Stephon Tuitt said. Nobody could make out what Shazier said since it was too loud.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) December 11, 2017

Shazier is showing "gradual improvement," according to ESPN, but doctors are "controlling and limiting" Shazier's movement as he continues his recovery.

With Shazier and his top backup Tyler Matakevich (shoulder) out, Ravens running back Alex Collins ran wild Sunday night and Joe Flacco enjoyed dumping it off in the flats against Arthur Moats and Sean Spence, who was picked up off waivers to help fill the void at linebacker. Still, the Steelers found a way to win and now have a teammate worth winning for when times get tough. 

By Chelsea Howard

The Steelers will play in their first game against the Ravens on Sunday since Ryan Shazier's horrific injury happened on Monday, and his teammates are planning to honor him in a special way.

Antonio Brown shared a video on Snapchat of customized yellow cleats that have Shazier's face on them. The cleats also have the No. 50, #shalieve and a picture of a lion, which represents a motivational symbol that Shazier has been known to use on social media.

According to ESPN, the cleats were designed by Corey Pane, who works with Brown. Pane indicated that up to 15 Steelers will have the customized cleats, but it's unclear who will wear them on Sunday.

The players likely will only be able to wear them during warmups, as the NFL has strict rules regarding dress code.

Shazier's teammates have found a way to remember him on the field as he continues to recover from an injury suffered Monday against the Bengals while making a tackle. He underwent spinal stabilization surgery on Wednesday.

The team has not provided details of the surgery or the prognosis, but his doctor, David Caho, told the San Diego Union-Tribune that "without a doubt he is done for the season," adding the surgery, "does not rule Shazier out from football in the future."

By Ron Clements

Ryan Shazier is back in Pittsburgh, but the Steelers linebacker will continue to receive medical care for his injured back.

The Steelers said in a Wednesday statement that Shazier's treatment will continue at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where he will "continue tests and evaluations before his medical team any further updates on his condition."

Shazier, 25, suffered a spinal contusion while making a tackle early in Monday's 23-20 win over the Bengals. He was taken by ambulance to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where doctors treated him. He had swelling around his spinal cord, but improved enough over the last two days for him to be moved to Pittsburgh.

The Steelers thanked the doctors and staff at the UC Health Center for the "excellent care" Shazier received at the facility.

He was in "good spirits" on Wednesday and several of his teammates, including quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, said they've been sending their thoughts and prayers to him while preparing to face the Ravens on Sunday. 

Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier was placed on a backboard and carted off the field at Paul Brown Stadium early in the first quarter of Monday's game against the Bengals.

The Steelers' leading tackler lowered his head to stop Bengals receiver Josh Malone less than four minutes into the game. Shazier, in his fourth year from Ohio State, had his hands over his head when carted off the field. Steelers linebacker Vince Williams was in tears kneeling next to Shazier as trainers tended to him.

Oh no, Ryan Shazier of the Steelers goes in for a tackle & is now being carted off the field. pic.twitter.com/yfpju4GqFK

— Anthony Bellino (@ACBellino) December 5, 2017

Shazier was moving his arms and hands, but there was concern because of minimal movement in his legs. 

The Bengals had the ball for the first time when Shazier was injured and capitalized on a Ben Roethlisberger interception with a 35-yard Randy Bullock field goal with 10:48 remaining in the first quarter.

The Steelers did not immediately provide a status for Shazier, but did confirm a back injury. After a brief evaluation in the locker room, Shazier was transported to a nearby hospital. He was ruled out for the remainder of the game and the Steelers said there would be no further updates until after the game.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said following Pittsburgh's 23-20 comeback win he did not have an update on Shazier. He did say the 25-year-old linebacker was "receiving the necessary medical attention."

NFL Media reported Tomlin and general manager Kevin Colbert took a police escort to the hospital. The team was told Shazier has a spinal contusion with some swelling is involved. They won't know more until the swelling goes down, but it is encouraging news for Shazier. Former Steelers quarterback Tommy Maddox had a similar injury in 2002 and missed just one game.