The Pittsburgh Steelers should be feeling as hyped up as possible for their upcoming playoff game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, but they got an added boost on Wednesday from a team leader who will not be able to take the field on Sunday.
Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier, who has been out for over a month now, was able to join the team at practice for the first time since he suffered a spinal injury. He shared an emotional post about it on Instagram.
“I want to thank the Lord for the first downs that he has been allowing me to achieve. The touchdown is going to come in his timing, but today was a first down. I was finally able to make it to practice with my teammates,” Shazier wrote. “It’s great to be back for practices and meetings. Just to be able to feel a part of it means the world. So I’m working harder than I ever have to get back. Ive been making strides over the past month and continue to make progress. Taking it day-by-day, but I’m far from done. The Lord has not finished his work yet. I want to say thank you to the fans and Steelers Nation for the prayers. If it wasn’t for my family, friends and your prayers I wouldn’t be were I am now. They have lifted me and my family through this journey and I ask for you to continue praying for me, as I continue to work daily on improving my health. #Shalieve#Steelers#prayfor50”
Shazier has been making progress since he underwent spine surgery last month, though it remains unclear if and when he will be able to play football again. The 25-year-old’s father recently shared an encouraging update.
While the Steelers would love to have Shazier on the field as they try to capture a championship, his mere presence at practice must be a big help for his teammates.
