Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier will remain in a Cincinnati hospital for a second night after suffering a spine injury during Monday night’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The crown of his helmet hit Bengals receiver Josh Malone before he dropped to the turf, clutching his back.
Players got emotional and circled around him as he was injured on the field. After a long injury delay, he was strapped to a board and taken off the field. There were fears that he might have been paralyzed.
The exact severity of his injury was not disclosed.
Coach Mike Tomlin visited Shazier Tuesday.
“Had an opportunity to spend some time with him; he is in really good spirits, tough guy. He has great support from family and loved ones there. It was painful to get on that plane last night. That’s life. We realize and understand he is in really good hands and getting expert medical care. He also challenged us to move on with what it is we need to move on, and he is with us as well.”
Shazier leads the Steelers in tackles (87), forced fumbles (2), and interceptions (3).