Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier has been hospitalized for nearly the last two weeks since suffering a spinal injury against the Cincinnati Bengals.

According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center on Thursday afternoon provided an update on Shazier's health.

Shazier had undergone spinal stabilization surgery a more than a week ago, and the fact that he has begun his physical rehabilitation is a major step forward. When the injury had initially occurred, there were serious concerns that it could have a huge impact on his life off the field involving his ability to walk.

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Although there isn't any clarity as to the timetable for recovery from the injury, the Steelers have already declared Shazier out for the rest of the season earlier this week. The least of the concerns at this point is about his NFL future and almost entirely focus on his overall and well being moving forward for this severe and potentially life-changing situation.

With Shazier just beginning the physical rehab of his recovery, there should be another update provided at some point over the next few weeks or near the end of the month. In the meantime, the improvement in his condition is a definite positive step forward.