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Ryan Shazier embracing role as unofficial coach during Steelers OTAs

Wednesday, Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier re-affirmed that he’s committed to returning to the game of football after suffering a spinal cord injury Dec. 4.

Until that day comes, he’s committed to helping his teammates. Shazier has been a steady presence during the Steelers’ organized team activities, riding around on a golf cart and offering coaching and advice to players on the field — particularly to the linebackers who are working to fill his shoes.

Inside linebacker Tyler Matakevich, who has been taking first-team reps alongside starting linebacker Vince Williams, said Shazier’s knowledge has made the day-to-day process easier for himself and his teammates.