Pittsburgh Steelers praise Ryan Shazier

Aug 16, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier (50) intercepts a pass in front of Buffalo Bills tight end Scott Chandler (84) during the first half at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 16, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier (50) intercepts a pass in front of Buffalo Bills tight end Scott Chandler (84) during the first half at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Steelers rookie linebacker Ryan Shazier is looking to continue a long tradition of star linebackers in Pittsburgh, and he was off to a hot start on Saturday night against the Buffalo Bills in what was his preseason debut.

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Shazier was fantastic in his debut that included 11 solo tackles and an interception. Shazier added a pass defensed for good measure. 

After the game, Shazier’s fellow inside linebacker Lawrence Timmons had nothing but positive things to say about his new teammate.

“His pass coverage is awesome,” Timmons said, via the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “You saw the tackles; he was making tackles left and right. He has the pedigree. He has all the talent and the intangibles you want in an inside linebacker.”

Shazier was equally excited with how his debut went and he seems to be eager to continue improving on the field.

“I’m just excited to be back out on the field,” said Shazier. “Just to be out there and show everyone what I can do. You’re always nervous your first game. The NFL was the dream of my life. I finally got the opportunity to do it.”

Saturday was just a taste of what the Steelers can expect from their 2014 first round pick and the early indication is that he will be worth their investment.