Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Ryan Shazier

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

Discover the career path of Ryan Shazier, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Ryan Shazier is a former American football linebacker. He played college football at Ohio State before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. A promising career was tragically cut short due to a severe spinal injury sustained during a 2017 game. While he never played again, Shazier's determination and rehabilitation became an inspirational story.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2012: Started all 12 Games for Ohio State

In 2012, Ryan Shazier started all 12 regular season games for Ohio State, leading the Big Ten Conference with 17 tackles for a loss and placing second in the league with 115 tackles.

January 5, 2014: Declared for NFL Draft

On January 5, 2014, Ryan Shazier announced his decision to forgo his senior season and enter the 2014 NFL draft.

June 5, 2014: Signed with Steelers

On June 5, 2014, Ryan Shazier signed a four-year, $9.50 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers, including a signing bonus of $5.23 million.

2014: Drafted by Steelers

In 2014, Ryan Shazier was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the NFL draft.

December 20, 2015: Interception vs Broncos

On December 20, 2015, Ryan Shazier made his first career interception, picking off Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler, and recorded three pass deflections.

January 9, 2016: Forced Fumble vs Bengals

On January 9, 2016, during the AFC Wildcard game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Ryan Shazier stripped the ball from Jeremy Hill, leading to the game-winning field goal.

December 25, 2016: Playoff Clinching Interception vs Ravens

On December 25, 2016, Ryan Shazier recorded ten combined tackles and intercepted Joe Flacco in a playoff-clinching victory over the Baltimore Ravens.

2016: Pro Bowl Appearance

In 2016, Ryan Shazier had a Pro Bowl appearance, marking a successful period in his NFL career.

April 24, 2017: Fifth-Year Option Picked Up

On April 24, 2017, the Steelers picked up the fifth-year option on Ryan Shazier's contract.

September 10, 2017: Career High Game

On September 10, 2017, Ryan Shazier tied a career-high with 11 solo tackles and forced a career-high of two forced fumbles during a victory over the Browns.

January 2023: Launch of Cannabis Product Line

In January 2023, Ryan Shazier partnered with Organic Remedies to launch a cannabis product line named Steel City Greats, citing its benefits for pain management during his recovery.