Ryan Shazier Injury Update: Steelers LB Moved To University Of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier was moved from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh for extensive testing and further treatment following a spinal injury he suffered during a game this week, the team announced on Wednesday.

Shazier was undergoing medical treatment at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center facility for a spinal injury he suffered during the Steelers' 23-20 win against the Cincinnati Bengals Monday night, where his head struck the thigh of Bengals receiver Josh Malone. He was carted off on a stretcher before being transported to the hospital.

"He will continue tests and evaluations before his medical team provides any further updates on his condition," the Steelers said in a statement. "We again want to thank the doctors and staff at UC Health's University of Cincinnati Medical Center for the excellent care Ryan received while at that facility."

Shazier, 25, showed signs of improvement with some movement in his legs, however, movement does not return simultaneously, a source familiar with the injury told ESPN’s Ian Rapoport. Doctors will know the extent of his injury once the swelling goes down.

Coach Mike Tomlin and Steelers owner Art Rooney II visited Shazier in the hospital Monday night.

"I'd imagine that at the appropriate time those that are responsible for his care will give you a reasonable assessment of where he is," Tomlin said in a statement. "I'd imagine that to occur as soon as later today. But from my perspective, obviously, it was a tough evening. Ryan is a trooper. Had an opportunity to spend some time with him and he's in really good spirits. Tough guy."

"Ryan is a legitimate leader. He was asking about the guys, Vince [Williams] particularly," he added. "I told him about the guys, we talked about how the game unfolded and some of those things -- normal conversations. Not only is he a mentally tough guy but he's a guy who is spiritually in a great place and I know that is an asset to him and his family."

Shazier took to Twitter Tuesday with a message for his fans: "Thank you for the prayers. Your support is uplifting to me and my family. #SHALIEVE."

The Steelers selected Shazier in the first round with the 15th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. The team signed the Florida native to a four-year, $9.5 million contract Jun. 5, 2014. Shazier had two forced fumbles, three interceptions and 87 tackles this season.