In the NFL, we know that injuries are part of the game. But nobody enjoys talking about medical concerns that could cause a player to never again play the game they love. Just two days after the 2025 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers released a heartbreaking statement about defensive back and 2024 sixth-round pick Ryan Watts.
The Steelers have released Watts from their roster for health-related reasons. In the statement from general manager Omar Khan, both the team and Watts' party believe it's in the best interest of his health if he doesn't play football at this time.
"Unfortunately, today we are releasing Ryan Watts from our roster," Khan wrote in the statement. "After consulting with our medical team, medical experts, and Ran'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."
This is devastating enough to Steelers fans, so we can only imagine what Watts and his family are going through right now.
In the final live snap of the 2024 preseason, Watts made a tackle but suffered a scary neck injury. Instantly, we could tell that something was wrong, and it was a scary scene on the field as players from both teams gathered around and took a knee. Months later, Watts posted a picture after surgery.
Brooke Pryor of ESPN confirms that this is a career-ending neck injury for Watts. The promising Day 3 draft choice was a cornerback who converted to safety for the Steelers and had an impressive blend of size, length, and athletic traits.
Watts played his college football with the Ohio State Buckeyes for two years before transferring and playing his junior and senior seasons with the Texas Longhorns.
Our hearts and prayers go out to Ryan Watts and his family during this difficult time.