×

NFL: Shazier Leaves Hospital, Ready For ‘Next Step’

    Advertisement Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier left a rehabilitation hospital Thursday, almost two months after suffering a severe spinal injury in an NFL … Continue reading NFL: Shazier Leaves Hospital, Ready For ‘Next Step’


photo taken on January 15, 2017 of inside linebacker Ryan Shazier #50 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrates a play against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Dilip VISHWANAT / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP

 

 

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier left a rehabilitation hospital Thursday, almost two months after suffering a severe spinal injury in an NFL game against Cincinnati.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center announced in a statement on Thursday that Shazier has been discharged from its Rehabilitation Institute.

“Ryan Shazier was discharged from the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at UPMC Mercy today and will transition into an outpatient therapy program through UPMC Centers for Rehab Services,” the statement read.

Shazier offered a statement of his own on Instagram, complete with a photo of him standing next to Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

“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,” Shazier wrote. “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.

“… 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 hit wide receiver Josh Malone low with his shoulder pads, then immediately reached for his back while his legs remained motionless during a game on December 4.

The 25-year-old Shazier underwent spinal stabilization surgery two days later. He has attended Steelers games while watching from a suite at Heinz Field.