Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier will not play next season as he continues to recover from a major spinal injury suffered in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in early December this past season.

Steelers GM Kevin Colbert made the announcement Wednesday, saying both player and team are aware Shazier won't be ready to play in 2018.

Shazier had spinal stabilization surgery days after the injury and was in the hospital for months. The 25-year-old linebacker can now stand on his own and vowed earlier this month to one day play again.

Shazier is a two-time Pro Bowler and had career-highs in tackles (68) and pass defences (11) in 12 games last season before the injury.