Ryan Shazier, whose comeback from a devastating spinal contusion suffered in 2017 continues to be an inspiration for many, was selected as the 2019 George Halas Award winner by the Pro Football Writers of America.
Shazier, who was injured Dec. 4, 2017, in Cincinnati while making a tackle, is the 51st winner of the award and the third Steelers player to be honored. Rocky Bleier won the award in 1975 and John Stallworth was honored in 1985.
18 months ago, there were fears Ryan Shazier might never walk again.
Last night, he danced at his wedding 🙏
(via @Love_Ola_9) pic.twitter.com/aW9nxFhwvD
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 4, 2019
Shazier's continued rehab from the injury, which left him paralyzed from the waist down, has been well documented. He has resumed running and earlier this year danced at his own wedding.
In the days following his injury, Shazier underwent spinal stabilization surgery. He continues to work toward the goal of playing in the NFL again some day.
Other nominees in 2019 included Steelers running back James Conner, Giants general manager Dave Gettleman, Texans safety Andre Hal and Colts quarterback Andrew Luck.
The Halas Award is given to an NFL player, coach or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed. The award is named for Halas, a charter member (1963) of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, who was associated with the Chicago Bears and NFL as an owner, manager, player, and promoter from their inception in 1920 until his death in 1983.
The Halas Award is one of the two-oldest awards presented by the PFWA, along with the Dick McCann Award, presented to a reporter who has made a long and distinguished contribution to pro football through coverage.
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