Ryan Shazier’s Remarkable Journey from Player to Coach
PITTSBURGH — In the heart of the Steel City, where football is more than just a game, Ryan Shazier stands as a testament to resilience and reinvention. Clad in a black puffer jacket and a Pittsburgh Steelers beanie, Shazier is a familiar figure at the team’s indoor practice facility. But instead of donning a helmet and pads, he’s now an offensive assistant, helping running backs hone their skills.
It’s a role that might seem surprising for those who remember Shazier as the dynamic linebacker drafted in the first round by the Steelers in 2014. Back then, he was the future of the Steelers’ defense, a player who could change the course of a game with his speed and instincts. But a devastating spinal cord injury in 2017 during a game against the Bengals altered his path forever.
Seven years later, Shazier is back with the Steelers, not as a player but as a coach, embracing a new chapter in his football journey. “Honestly, I didn’t know [about coaching] because I was so focused on playing,” Shazier admits. “I thought it was a blessing to play, and I just wanted to play as long as I could.”
His transition from player to coach has been anything but straightforward. After his injury, Shazier spent years rehabilitating, even maintaining a locker at the Steelers’ facility until he officially retired in 2020. During that time, he explored various ventures, from finishing his degree at Ohio State to launching a medical marijuana brand. Yet, the call of football was too strong to ignore.
In 2024, Shazier found himself back with the Steelers, this time on the coaching staff. “He’s learning the separation between player and coach and what that looks like,” says running backs coach Eddie Faulkner. “He wants to coach. You got to want to do it, because obviously the time that it requires.”
The Decision to Return
Shazier’s decision to return to the field, albeit in a different capacity, wasn’t made lightly. After his injury, he remained a fixture at the Steelers’ facility, continuing his rehab and staying connected to the team. But as the reality of his situation set in, Shazier announced his retirement in September 2020.
“To lose the game in a way I never envisioned has not been easy,” Shazier reflected. “When you play the game of football the way I did, you convince yourself you’re Superman, that nothing can stop you.”
After stepping away, Shazier explored other industries but ultimately realized that his passion for football was unmatched. This realization led him to coach Mike Tomlin’s office, where he was offered a role on the 2024 coaching staff.
“Ryan has a unique relationship with this game,” Tomlin said. “He has a passion for it, he has a thirst for knowledge regarding the game that he loves to share with others.”
Learning the Ropes
Shazier’s new role involves a steep learning curve, especially as he transitions from defense to offense. Running back Jonathan Ward was initially surprised to see Shazier in the offensive meeting room. “Steelers legend,” Ward said. “Ohio State legend. It was just surreal seeing him in person.”
Despite the challenges, Shazier is embracing his new role. “I was surprised, but also not surprised,” he says of his assignment to the offensive side. “At first, I was a little nervous, and even to this day I’m still a little nervous because it’s literally every single day I’m learning.”
- Shazier’s insights as a former linebacker provide invaluable perspectives to the running backs.
- His presence in meetings offers a unique vantage point, bridging the gap between offense and defense.
- Shazier’s experience and knowledge are assets that the team is eager to leverage.
As a quality control analyst, Shazier’s responsibilities are varied and often behind the scenes. From setting up drills to assisting with special teams, he is learning the intricacies of coaching from the ground up.
“He went from the top of the food chain, now he’s back at the bottom,” says outside linebackers coach Denzel Martin. “He’s doing a great job at it, whatever you ask him to do.”
Looking Ahead
Shazier’s journey from player to coach is just beginning, but his aspirations are clear. “I’m just taking it day by day,” he says. “But in my vision, I would love to be a head coach down the road.”
With his determination and passion for the game, there’s no doubt that Shazier will continue to make an impact, both on and off the field.
Originally Written by: Brooke Pryor
