The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted defensive back Ryan Watts with the 195th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Watts showed promise throughout his rookie training camp and preseason, but his journey was cut short after suffering a neck injury during the Steelers' final preseason game against the Detroit Lions. What was initially described as a minor stinger turned out to be far more serious, ultimately requiring surgery and a lengthy recovery process. Watts was placed on Injured Reserve before the start of the regular season.
Texas Athletics
Defensive back Ryan Watts reacts after making a play for the Texas Longhorns.
On Monday morning, the Steelers’ official social media channels released a somber update regarding Watts' condition. General Manager Omar Khan issued a statement, revealing that the injury was more devastating than anyone had hoped. Despite Watts' efforts to rehab and recover, the damage to his neck was career-ending, and doctors advised that he would no longer be able to safely play football.
The news is heartbreaking for the young defensive back, who had worked tirelessly to earn his spot in Pittsburgh. Watts’ future with the game he loves has been cut short before it even truly began. The Steelers organization, teammates, and fans have expressed their support for Watts as he now focuses on his long-term health and begins the next chapter of his life.
"Unfortunately, today we are releasing Ryan Watts from our roster," Khan said. "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."
It is an incredibly sad situation. Football aside, Watts was drafted by the Steelers in 2024 with high hopes of chasing his lifelong dream. There was a great deal of excitement surrounding Watts at the time, especially about his potential to contribute immediately on special teams.
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Defensive back Ryan Watts during his time with the Texas Longhorns.
He impressed the coaching staff with his size, athleticism, and work ethic, and there was genuine belief that he could carve out a meaningful role. Sadly, Watts never even had the opportunity to play in a regular-season game or truly showcase his abilities before his career was derailed by an unfortunate injury.
Before the injury, Watts had shown flashes of his potential, recording 13 tackles during the preseason. His physicality and determination stood out, and it was clear he had the heart and attitude the Steelers value. Unfortunately, his rookie year turned into one of the most challenging times of his life.
After initially being diagnosed with a stinger, further evaluation revealed a much more serious neck injury that ultimately ended his playing career before it ever had a chance to begin. Watts later described his rookie season as one of the hardest and most heartbreaking experiences he has ever faced.
Steelers Will Continue To Support Ryan Watts
It’s a devastating turn of events, but the Steelers' organization is known for standing by its players, especially in difficult times. Pittsburgh will surely continue to offer Watts support as he navigates the next steps in his life after football. It's a brutal blow for Watts who quickly saw his dream turn into a nightmare.
Darron Cummings / Associated Press
Steelers' Ryan Watts works out at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine.
While his NFL dream was heartbreakingly cut short before it could truly begin, Watts’ resilience, character, and perseverance remain undeniable. These qualities, which helped him reach the professional level in the first place, will continue to guide him as he embarks on the next chapter of his life beyond football.
Although the road ahead will be different than the one he envisioned, there is no doubt that Watts has the strength and determination to succeed in whatever path he chooses to pursue. The entire Steelers community — from the front office and coaching staff to his teammates and fans — is rallying behind him with unwavering support, ready to help him through this transition and whatever challenges lie ahead. Watts' story, though cut short on the field, is far from over.
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