Junior linebacker Ryan Shazier (2) sacks the quarterback during a game against Purdue Nov. 2 at Ross-Ade Stadium. OSU won, 56-0.
Credit: Shelby Lum / Photo editor
Former Ohio State football player Ryan Shazier was selected by Pittsburgh Steelers with the 15th pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
Shazier, a linebacker who chose to forgo his final year of eligibility in Columbus, was an Associated Press All-American in 2013 with the Buckeyes totaling a 143 total tackles, good for first in the Big Ten.
He is ranked 15th in total tackles and sixth in solo tackles in Buckeye football history.
During his junior season, Shazier tied the Big Ten record by being named the conference defensive player of the week three times, and totaled five for his career. He was also twice named the Lott IMPACT Trophy national player of the week for his performances against Purdue, when he tallied seven total tackles with two sacks, and Illinois, when he totaled 16 tackles – 3.5 of which were for a loss – and forced a fumble. OSU won both games.
As a sophomore, Shazier led the team with 115 total tackles and started all 12 games in an undefeated season for the Buckeyes. He played in all 13 games in 2011 as a true freshman.
Shazier is set to join an experienced Pittsburgh linebacking core, which includes Lawrence Timmons, who totaled 126 tackles in 2013. Four former OSU players in offensive lineman Mike Adams, safety Will Allen, offensive lineman Bryant Browning and defensive lineman Cameron Heyward are already on the Steelers’ roster.
The Steelers are set to begin their 2014 season against the Cleveland Browns Sept. 7 in Pittsburgh, Pa.
