Steelers release Watts over concerns from neck injury
The Steelers are releasing defensive back Ryan Watts due to medical concerns.
Watts, a sixth-round pick out of Texas by the Steelers in the 2024 NFL Draft, sustained a neck injury in the preseason finale last year against the Lions.
"Unfortunately, today we are releasing Ryan Watts from our roster," Omar Khan said in a statement. "After consulting with our medical team, medical experts and Ryan's representatives, we all agree that it is in Ryan's best interest to discontinue playing football at this time.
"We will continue to assist and support Ryan as he transitions to the next phase of his life."
Watts was initially diagnosed with a stinger, but spent the next couple of weeks in a neck brace while remaining around the team. He was placed on injured reserve on Aug. 27 and never played a snap in the regular season.
He worked with all of the other players recovering from injuries throughout the season, but wound up needing surgery in January.
"This has easily been one of the hardest years of my life," Watts wrote in an Instagram story at the time of the surgery, with a photo of him in a hospital bed. "Through serious injury and all I will remain optimistic because I can do ALL things through HIM. Road to recovery …"
Today, Watts posted on his Instagram:
INSTAGRAM: @THERYANWATTS_
"Mannnn, y'all boys cherish and enjoy this game of football. You never know which play could be your last."
I really feel for Watts. He remained dedicated and worked extremely hard to come back from this injury. His career is over before it really got started.
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THE ASYLUM
Chris Halicke
3:22 pm - 04.28.2025South SideSteelers release Watts over concerns from neck injury
The Steelers are releasing defensive back Ryan Watts due to medical concerns.
Watts, a sixth-round pick out of Texas by the Steelers in the 2024 NFL Draft, sustained a neck injury in the preseason finale last year against the Lions.
"Unfortunately, today we are releasing Ryan Watts from our roster," Omar Khan said in a statement. "After consulting with our medical team, medical experts and Ryan's representatives, we all agree that it is in Ryan's best interest to discontinue playing football at this time.
"We will continue to assist and support Ryan as he transitions to the next phase of his life."
Watts was initially diagnosed with a stinger, but spent the next couple of weeks in a neck brace while remaining around the team. He was placed on injured reserve on Aug. 27 and never played a snap in the regular season.
He worked with all of the other players recovering from injuries throughout the season, but wound up needing surgery in January.
"This has easily been one of the hardest years of my life," Watts wrote in an Instagram story at the time of the surgery, with a photo of him in a hospital bed. "Through serious injury and all I will remain optimistic because I can do ALL things through HIM. Road to recovery …"
Today, Watts posted on his Instagram:
INSTAGRAM: @THERYANWATTS_
"Mannnn, y'all boys cherish and enjoy this game of football. You never know which play could be your last."
I really feel for Watts. He remained dedicated and worked extremely hard to come back from this injury. His career is over before it really got started.
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