The dream of playing in even one NFL regular-season game is over for Pittsburgh Steelers Cornerback Ryan Watts. The Steelers announced that they released him, a sixth-round draft pick last year, after evaluating the medical findings and consultation with his representative.
Watts Was Injured In 2024 Preseason Game
Watts left with a neck injury in an August preseason game against the Detroit Lions. He lay on the field for several minutes after a routine tackle. He would never touch the field again. He was placed on Injured Reserve shortly after the injury and never practiced or played in a game in 2024.
Unofficial posts from friends and the player led many to believe the insult was more serious than many predicted. The announcement from the Steelers verified the severity of the injury.
The College Career Of Watts
Watts played four college football seasons, starting his career at Ohio State and the last two years at Texas. He finished with an even 100 tackles and three interceptions in 41 games. Football aside, the good news is that he took his academic opportunity seriously.
He generated news after the draft last year when he missed one day of Steelers mini-camp because he was at the University of Texas graduation ceremonies, picking up his college degree. A good lesson for all prospective NFL players. Always have Plan B done as soon as possible.
