Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Ryan Watts will retire from football as the result of a neck injury suffered during last year’s preseason finale.

Watts, 23, was a sixth-round pick in last year’s draft. He showed promise during training camp as a versatile depth piece for the secondary. But late during a preseason defeat at the Detroit Lions on Aug. 24, Watts absorbed an awkward hit while trying to make a tackle.

Days later, he was placed on injured reserve and missed the entire season.

The Steelers on Monday released a statement attributed to general manager Omar Khan:

“Unfortunately, today we are releasing Ryan Watts from our roster. After consulting with our medical team, medical experts, and Ryan’s representatives, we all agree that it is in Ryan’s best interest to discontinue playing football at this time. We will continue to assist and support Ryan as he transitions to the next phase of his life.”

The 6-foot-3 Watts played in college two seasons each at Ohio State and Texas.

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