The Pittsburgh Steelers released defensive back Ryan Watts on Monday, April 28, 2025, due to a neck injury sustained during the previous preseason. Watts, a second-year player, is expected to medically retire from football.
Watts was a sixth-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Texas. He suffered a stinger during the Steelers' final preseason game against the Detroit Lions. The injury kept him sidelined for the entire 2024 season.
He underwent surgery over the offseason. While he participated in some rehabilitation with the team, he was unable to return to the field to test the injury's strength.
General Manager Omar Khan issued a statement regarding the team's decision.
"Unfortunately, today we are releasing Ryan Watts from our roster," Khan said in a statement released by the team. "After consulting with our medical team, medical experts, and Ryan's representatives, we all agree that it is in Ryan's best interest to discontinue playing football at this time."
Khan added that the team will continue to support Watts as he transitions from the sport. The Pittsburgh Steelers had anticipated Watts potentially competing for a depth safety role before the injury occurred.
Watts was seen wearing a neck brace at times during the 2024 season as he recovered from the injury. The decision to release him allows him to move forward based on the medical advice received.
"We will continue to assist and support Ryan as he transitions to the next phase of his life," Khan's statement concluded.
