Shazier plans to continue career, Steelers open to discussing FA deal

Ryan Shazier wants to throw on the pads once again.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney said Shazier intends to continue rehabbing his back injury with hopes of playing football in the future, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

The linebacker suffered a spinal contusion against the Cincinnati Bengals during the 2017 season. He later underwent spinal stabilization surgery.

Shazier missed the entire 2018 season while recovering from the injury and has progressed to a walk with the use of a cane.

The former first-round pick is scheduled to hit free agency this year, so the Steelers would have to sign him to a new contract in order for him to continue his rehab process with the team.

Rooney acknowledged he's open to discussing a deal in the future, even if Shazier is not yet cleared to play.

"To the extent he wants to do that, we're open to working that out."

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