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Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier took the next step in his recovery from a serious spinal injury. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center announced in a statement on Thursday that Shazier has been discharged from its Rehabilitation Institute. Shazier underwent spinal stabilization surgery in December after being injured while making a tackle in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
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"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 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 Dec. 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.
Shazier finished with 89 tackles, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and 11 passes defensed in 12 games this past season. In four NFL seasons, Shazier has 299 tackles, seven sacks, seven forced fumbles and seven interceptions.
