Sometimes we all forget that football players are human. We see them out on the field and they seem almost superhuman at times. They run faster, hit harder, battle through injuries, and do things with their bodies many can only dream of. It isn’t until something happens or we reflect on their careers that we remember they are mortal. Such is the case with the heroic story of former Ohio State linebacker Ryan Shazier.
During his time with the Buckeyes, Shazier was an absolute beast. His hard-hitting style, mixed with high football IQ, helped him excel at Ohio State. This led him to be drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of 2014 NFL Draft.
The start of his career was on a trajectory to be one of the best linebackers in the NFL. But in 2017 his outstanding career took a massive hit when suffered not only a career-threatening injury, but an injury where it was unsure if he could walk again. The Steelers did the right thing and placed him on the reserve/retired list.
On Wednesday it was made official. Ryan Shazier officially retired from football. The bigger picture is that Shazier can walk, and while his future is unknown, he could have a career in coaching or doing something else big.
Former Ohio State linebacker Ryan Shazier officially retires from football https://t.co/u2XqIiqq3z
— Buckeyes Wire (@BuckeyesWire) September 9, 2020
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With all the respect in the world from the Ohio State faithful and football fans of all teams, both professional and in college, we here at Buckeyes Wire say thank you to Ryan. You have been an inspiration to many, both on and off the field. May your future continue to shine, and one day, maybe we will see you walking a sideline again.
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