Ryan Shazier injury update: Steelers linebacker recovering in hospital

After a scary hit, Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier is recovering in the hospital.

The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 23-20 Monday night. That win unfortunately did not come without a price. Outside linebacker Ryan Shazier suffered a terrible back injury during the game. The injury came on Pittsburgh’s very first possession on defense, no less. Ultimately, Shazier would get carted off the field and be taken into the locker room. He would be evaluated, and soon after that, Shazier was taken to a local medical facility. As of now, that’s where he is, and he’s undergoing further evaluation.

In his postgame press conference, head coach Mike Tomlin spoke about Shazier’s injury. Coach Tomlin had no substantial update for anyone, but noted that they would release one at the appropriate time. He also made sure to note that they’re thankful that he’s getting the necessary treatment he needs and deserves.

And Tomlin is certainly right about that. Given the severity of his injury, ensuring tehat Shazier is getting the proper treatment and medical attention is priority No. 1. When someone suffers a debilitating back injury like this, the focus should be on Shazier and Shazier only.

For what it’s worth, Gerry Dulac reports that his injury is “better than what it could have been.”

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That’s why it’s perhaps silly to talk about what this means for Pittsburgh going forward right now. The team’s main concern should be on the health of their teammate. Hopefully, he makes a full recovery and is able to play football again. Or, at the very least, live a normal life again.