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Steelers Star Wins Divorce Battle, Protects Millions After Two-Year Legal Fight

Ryan Shazier's incredible recovery from spinal injury continues with a  3-foot box jump - CBSSports.com

Pittsburgh, PA – October 1, 2025

Another dramatic legal chapter has closed for a former NFL standout. Ryan Shazier, the beloved Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker whose career was cut short by a spinal injury, has emerged victorious in a tense two-year divorce battle with ex-wife Michelle Rodriguez.

Shazier married Rodriguez, a model and entrepreneur, in May 2019 after dating since 2016. But their marriage dissolved in January 2024, triggering a prolonged courtroom fight over property, alimony, and division of Shazier’s NFL earnings and investments.

According to OverTheCap and Spotrac, Shazier earned $18.7 million in NFL salary, bonuses, and incentives during his career (2014–2019). That included $9.5 million guaranteed from his rookie contract, and an $8.26 million bonus tied to his 2018 option year. His peak annual salary came in 2018 at $8.7 million following his Pro Bowl 2016 campaign.

After his devastating spinal injury in 2017, Shazier never played another down but remained on Pittsburgh’s payroll through 2019. Since then, his income has shifted to an estimated $500,000 annually as a coach, speaker, and through his philanthropic Shazier Fund, which supports spinal rehabilitation.

Rodriguez sought more than 70% of marital assets, claiming Shazier’s future earning potential as a coach and public figure should be factored into spousal support. She requested permanent alimony and partial ownership of his charitable ventures.

But forensic accountants hired by Shazier’s legal team revealed Rodriguez had misused nearly $1.5 million in joint funds, including luxury travel, private club memberships, and unauthorized transfers to personal business accounts.

Judge Karen Ellison of Allegheny County ruled largely in Shazier’s favor, granting him control of 60% of marital assets (valued around $12 million) and rejecting Rodriguez’s claim on the Shazier Fund. She was ordered to repay $750,000 deemed as wasteful spending, while Shazier will provide temporary support for 12 months.

Speaking after the ruling, Shazier said: “As a husband, I always trusted her with our future. But when trust is broken, all I ask for is fairness. She deserves her share for what we built together, but she cannot take it all.”

For Steelers Nation, the decision highlights once again Shazier’s resilience. Just as he fought to walk again after paralysis, he stood tall in court to protect what he earned. Fans online hailed it as “another comeback” for one of Pittsburgh’s most inspiring figures.

Steelers Work Out Saints Superstar 5× Pro Bowler & 2× All-Pro — Pending Medical Evaluation
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – As the New Orleans Saints sink deeper with an 0-4 record through the first four weeks of the 2025 season, trade rumors surrounding star running back Alvin Kamara are heating up more than ever. The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly showing “special” interest in the 30-year-old, with reports indicating they are preparing a major offer that includes arranging a medical evaluation to assess Kamara’s health before moving forward with a deal. This could be a huge boost for a Steelers offense lacking depth at running back due to injuries and Jaylen Warren’s inconsistent performance. The Saints are facing a full-blown crisis, from a porous defense to financial woes with a projected $21.8 million cap deficit in 2026. Kamara, still a central piece of their offense with his elite rushing and receiving skills, could be placed on the trade block in exchange for draft capital—likely a late-round pick or a pick swap. Analysts from FanSided and Steelers Wire highlight Pittsburgh as the “ideal destination” for Kamara, as he could immediately strengthen the Steelers’ backfield and help them contend for the AFC North crown while the Ravens and Bengals battle injuries. Kamara, who signed a contract extension with the Saints in 2024, has never reached 1,000 rushing yards in a single season, but his versatility (hundreds of receiving yards annually) makes him an attractive target for playoff contenders. Under GM Omar Khan, the Steelers have become known for bold moves, and adding Kamara could be a strategic step to support QB Aaron Rodgers and capitalize on weakened divisional rivals. The Steelers’ “special” interest is underscored by their plans to conduct a thorough medical evaluation of Kamara—a standard step in blockbuster trades given his history of injuries, including groin and ankle issues from past seasons. If cleared, Kamara could quickly step in as the Steelers’ lead back and pair with Warren to form a powerful one-two punch. Sources from SI.com and Steelers Wire suggest the deal may only cost a late-round pick, making it very feasible before the trade deadline. However, Kamara has previously expressed his desire to remain with the Saints and even holds a no-trade clause. Still, the team’s disastrous situation could force a change. Other teams such as the Chiefs, Chargers, and Broncos have been mentioned, but the Steelers stand out due to their urgent need and track record of pursuing AFC stars. If the deal goes through, the Steelers could strengthen their Super Bowl push with a bolstered offense, while the Saints would gain draft capital to aid their rebuild. Fans on X (Twitter) are buzzing with “blockbuster” trade proposals involving other names like WR Chris Olave, but Kamara remains the most talked-about piece. All eyes are now on the medical evaluation—whether it seals the deal or not, this could become one of the hottest trades of the 2025 season.