Jeremy Fowler, senior NFL national reporter 6y

For Steelers, Ryan Shazier is always money well spent

PITTSBURGH -- The respect Ryan Shazier garners in the Pittsburgh Steelers offices and locker room made the decision to advance most of his $8.7 million salary in the form of a signing bonus an easy call.

Shazier approached the team about the move, and the Steelers obliged. The money was guaranteed for injury, which is a good thing against the backdrop of the catastrophic spinal injury the linebacker suffered on a Week 13 tackling attempt in Cincinnati.

Though Shazier isn't playing in 2018, he'll most likely be putting in serious work. Shazier has logged 9-to-5-type hours at the Steelers facility throughout the offseason, working out in the weight room and breaking down film with scouts.

Shazier's role for next season has not been clearly defined, but he could assume an informal coaching/motivational position, staying with the team on a daily basis while it chases the franchise's seventh championship.

Late last season, having Shazier around the building galvanized a locker room that was visibly shaken in the days after the injury. His presence alone won't win games, of course. The Steelers' run defense struggled mightily late in 2017, giving up 150-plus yards in three of the final five games. They didn't have an adequate replacement for Shazier, and they still don't.

But teammates have remained inspired by his progress. Shazier walking onto the NFL draft stage was not the first time many players saw the 25-year-old stand up and move on his own. He had been making gradual process in that area throughout the previous three months, with each milestone something to celebrate.

"That’s a huge lift, for not only him, but for us," general manager Kevin Colbert said on draft night. "To see where he’s come from to where he is and knowing where he might be able to go, it’s beyond inspirational. It’s just exciting. It’s really exciting for him."

Shazier felt he was growing into a team leader last season on his way to an outright Pro Bowl berth. He can't put his high-level athleticism on display on Sundays, but he can utilize the leadership on a more formal basis next season.

The Steelers moving up Shazier's money was a nice gesture. Shazier will undoubtedly provide value for the payment.

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