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Pittsburgh Steelers: 8 defensive players who will make the Pro Bowl in 2017

By Noah Strackbein

Aug 18, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebackers James Harrison (92) and Ryan Shazier (50) and defensive end Cameron Heyward (97) line up against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half of their game at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 18, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers linebackers James Harrison (92) and Ryan Shazier (50) and defensive end Cameron Heyward (97) line up against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half of their game at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ryan Shazier

Ryan Shazier is the leader of this Steelers’ defense. With his selection to the 2016 Pro Bowl, Shazier finally earned his ranking as one of the league’s top linebackers. Now, he comes back to a defense that is much more loaded with talent, looking to dominate the NFL as one of the best players in it.

What’s crazy, is he’s only entering his fourth season, is only 24-years-old, and is already one of the best players in professional football. With nothing but continued development in front of him, the sky is the limit for Shazier moving forward.

He’s put up 55 tackle seasons for two years straight, and with the upgraded talent around him in 2017, this number should be higher, leaving now room to question whether he’s a Pro Bowler or not. As long as he continues to dominate, which he will, he’ll be one of the first linebackers voted in.

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As top dog for this defense, Shazier is expected to have an even bigger year than 2016. Given his supporting cast, the possibility of being named a captain, and his continued development at only 24-years-old, this Steelers linebacker is looking to be arguably the best linebacker in football by the end of the season.

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