Steelers Rookie Ryan Watts Faces Uncertain Future After Devastating Neck Injury.
Pittsburgh Steelers rookie safety Ryan Watts’ season was cut short in a split second, and now his future in the sport hangs in the balance. Watts suffered a neck injury on the final play of the Steelers’ preseason, which left him motionless on the field for an extended period. The severity of the injury has forced Watts to consider a potentially career-altering decision: neck surgery.
Watts has shed the neck brace he wore for two weeks following the injury, but the risk of further damage remains. The injury occurred when Watts attempted a tackle with his head down, a technique that has been widely discouraged due to the high risk of neck and spinal injuries. The Steelers have placed Watts on season-ending injured reserve, but the question of whether surgery is necessary still looms large.
As Watts navigates this uncertain period, the Steelers and their medical staff will be closely monitoring his progress. The possibility of surgery raises concerns about Watts’ long-term health and ability to continue playing football. The Steelers will be hoping for the best possible outcome for their young safety, but only time will tell if Watts will be able to recover and resume his NFL career.