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He Was The Future Of The Steelers’ Defense… Until One Hit Changed Everything

He was the soul of the Steelers’ defense. A blur in black and gold. A linebacker with speed like a cornerback and heart like a lion. Ryan Shazier wasn’t just making tackles — he was rewriting what a defender could be.

Then came that night in Cincinnati, 2017.

One tackle. One collision. One silence.

Steelers LB Ryan Shazier announces retirement – The Denver Post

He reached for his back… and didn’t move again. The stadium went mute. The world watched in horror. Spinal injury. Paralysis. A career, stopped cold.

But that’s not the end of Shazier’s story.

Steelers' Ryan Shazier makes first appearance at practice after horrific  spinal injury

He fought. He walked again. Slowly. Proudly. Each step like a roar. He stood on the sidelines not as a player, but as a pillar. His presence became stronger than any stat line.

Pittsburgh never forgot.

Shazier announces his retirement

When the crowd chanted “Shalieve,” they weren’t just honoring a player — they were honoring the fire of a man who refused to let fate write his ending. Ryan Shazier never hoisted a Lombardi, but he lifted something greater — the spirit of an entire city.

Browns team physician says Ryan Shazier's injury 'not rare' in football |  Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

“Some dreams don’t die. They just change shape. I may not hit the field again, but I’m still part of this team. Forever.”

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Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722