The Steelers selected linebacker Ryan Shazier in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Shazier, as well as General Manager Kevin Colbert and Coach Mike Tomlin all weighed in on the selection.
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1st Round Selection Ryan Shazier on his reaction to being drafted by the Steelers:** "I was just shocked. I saw the area code and I immediately knew what team it was. Playing at Ohio State, I know the Pittsburgh area code pretty well. Just being over there, and hearing my name called and talking to Coach Tomlin was just an amazing feeling. I feel like it's going to be great that I'm in Pittsburgh."
1st Round Selection Ryan Shazier on what he knows about the Steelers defense: "I know defense is what Pittsburgh's known for and Coach (Dick) LeBeau is a great coach and has been there for a while. We have to get rolling and get back to the old ways."
Head Coach Mike Tomlin on Shazier's motor and determination on the field: "His production speaks for itself. You don't make 150 tackles without running to the ball. His tape says that, he doesn't need my endorsement. He plays with a great deal of urgency. We've looked at a lot of Ohio State tape over the course of his career. He was a significant contributor from the day he stepped on campus, and he really improved over the course of his stay there."
General Manager Kevin Colbert on adding another linebacker: "This kid is talented and unique. He's going to continue to grow and his ability to make plays laterally in the backfield as tackles for losses I think that is very important for today's defenses. One thing, it gives Coach LeBeau and Coach Tomlin another option defensively. I mean you think about the inside rush possibilities with him, Lawrence (Timmons) and Troy (Polamalu) and whoever else we add to the mix it will be exciting."
