Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier taken to hospital after terrifying head-first hit to an opponent

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December 5, 2017 4:14 AM

Ryan Shazier made a head-first tackle that left him on the ground, holding his back and head.

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier was carted off the field and later hospitalized on Monday night after making a head-first tackle.
Shazier stayed on the ground, holding his back and head.

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier was carted off the field and hospitalized Monday after a scary hit against the Cincinnati Bengals.

In the first quarter, Shazier tackled Bengals receiver Josh Malone head-first. Shazier stayed down on the ground afterward, writhing, grabbing his back and his head. He was eventually carted off the field.

Here's ESPN's replay of the hit:

ESPN reported after the game that Shazier had an MRI exam and CT scan and was not expected to need surgery. The team hopes he can leave the hospital by Tuesday.

Steelers linebacker Vince Williams told ESPN that he was near Shazier after the hit and that Shazier told him he had feeling in his lower extremities, which was one of the biggest concerns.

Several in the NFL world shared their sentiments for Shazier afterward, including the Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens.

You never want to see an in... @ Cincinnati Bengals

Our thoughts and prayers ar... @ Baltimore Ravens

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