### Heartbreaking End to Ryan Watts' NFL Journey: Steelers Release Cornerback After Career-Ending Injury Ryan Watts, a promising cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been released from the team following a severe neck injury that has forced him to medically retire from football at the young age of 23. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Watts' career was cut short after he sustained the injury during a preseason game against the Detroit Lions in August 2024. Despite showing potential during training camp, he was unable to play in the regular season and underwent surgery in the offseason. The Steelers made the announcement on April 28, 2025, emphasizing that the decision was made in consultation with medical experts and was in Watts' best interest [https://www.pennlive.com/steelers/2025/04/promising-steelers-safety-says-goodbye-to-football-after-career-ending-injury-never-know-which-play-could-be-your-last.html][https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nfl/article-14656499/NFL-player-Ryan-Watts-forced-retire-23-Pittsburgh-Steelers.html]. ### Overview of the Situation: Key Points 1. **Injury and Release**: Ryan Watts was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a severe neck injury sustained during the preseason, leading to his medical retirement. 2. **Career Background**: Watts was a sixth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, having previously played for Ohio State and Texas. 3. **Team's Decision**: The Steelers' management, including General Manager Omar Khan, stated that the decision was made after thorough consultations with medical professionals [https://www.cleveland.com/sports/2025/04/steelers-cut-former-ohio-state-player-after-career-ending-injury.html][https://www.breitbart.com/sports/2025/04/28/steelers-cornerback-ryan-watts-medically-retired-after-neck-injury]. 4. **Watts' Response**: Following the announcement, Watts expressed gratitude towards the Steelers organization for their support during this difficult time [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/ryan-watts-thanks-steelers-heartfelt-172449425.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Injury Details**: Watts suffered a neck injury during the final preseason game against the Detroit Lions, which led to surgery and ultimately his release [https://www.si.com/nfl/steelers-ryan-watts-retire-after-neck-injury]. - **Career Statistics**: Although Watts did not play in the regular season, he had a promising college career, totaling 89 tackles and six interceptions during his time at Texas [https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/college/longhorns/article/ryan-watts-steelers-released-medically-retire-20298425.php]. - **Team Changes**: The Steelers have been active in the draft, selecting additional players to bolster their roster following the release of Watts and other key players [https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/bruener_black_kent_round_out_steelers_2025_draft_class/s1_17193_42124639]. ### Conclusion: A Sad Chapter in a Young Athlete's Life 1. **Career Conclusion**: Ryan Watts' football career has come to an abrupt end due to a serious neck injury, marking a significant loss for both the player and the Pittsburgh Steelers. 2. **Team Support**: The Steelers organization has committed to supporting Watts as he transitions away from football, highlighting the human aspect of sports beyond the game itself. 3. **Future Implications**: This incident serves as a reminder of the physical risks associated with professional sports and the importance of player health and safety [https://www.apnews.com/article/steelers-watts-released-cf62cd2f4ece9d3d1d3a7dde6d98948d]. In summary, Ryan Watts' journey in the NFL has ended prematurely, but his contributions and potential will be remembered as he embarks on a new chapter in his life.