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Steelers Star Wins Multi-Million Dollar Court Battle After Wife Tried to Take All His Money

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Another dramatic legal chapter has closed for a former NFL standout. Ryan Shazier, the beloved Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker whose career was cut short by a spinal injury, has emerged victorious in a tense two-year divorce battle with ex-wife Michelle Rodriguez.

Shazier married Rodriguez, a model and entrepreneur, in May 2019 after dating since 2016. But their marriage dissolved in January 2024, triggering a prolonged courtroom fight over property, alimony, and division of Shazier’s NFL earnings and investments.

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According to OverTheCap and Spotrac, Shazier earned $18.7 million in NFL salary, bonuses, and incentives during his career (2014–2019). That included $9.5 million guaranteed from his rookie contract, and an $8.26 million bonus tied to his 2018 option year. His peak annual salary came in 2018 at $8.7 million following his Pro Bowl 2016 campaign.

After his devastating spinal injury in 2017, Shazier never played another down but remained on Pittsburgh’s payroll through 2019. Since then, his income has shifted to an estimated $500,000 annually as a coach, speaker, and through his philanthropic Shazier Fund, which supports spinal rehabilitation.

Rodriguez sought more than 70% of marital assets, claiming Shazier’s future earning potential as a coach and public figure should be factored into spousal support. She requested permanent alimony and partial ownership of his charitable ventures.

But forensic accountants hired by Shazier’s legal team revealed Rodriguez had misused nearly $1.5 million in joint funds, including luxury travel, private club memberships, and unauthorized transfers to personal business accounts.

Judge Karen Ellison of Allegheny County ruled largely in Shazier’s favor, granting him control of 60% of marital assets (valued around $12 million) and rejecting Rodriguez’s claim on the Shazier Fund. She was ordered to repay

$750,000 deemed as wasteful spending, while Shazier will provide temporary support for 12 months.

Speaking after the ruling, Shazier said: “As a husband, I always trusted her with our future. But when trust is broken, all I ask for is fairness. She deserves her share for what we built together, but she cannot take it all.”

For Steelers Nation, the decision highlights once again Shazier’s resilience. Just as he fought to walk again after paralysis, he stood tall in court to protect what he earned. Fans online hailed it as “another comeback” for one of Pittsburgh’s most inspiring figures.

Philadelphia Eagles' Star Quarterback Flatly Rejects Wearing Armband in Support of LGBT Movement
Hurry up and grab your authentic Philadelphia Eagles jersey right now to cheer for the legendary team and bring home the joy of victory! SHOP NOW BREAKING NEWS THAT STUNNED THE NFL: Jalen Hurts’ Bold Refusal Sends Shockwaves Through the League Philadelphia, PA – In a stunning turn of events that has shaken the NFL and ignited passionate debate across sports media, Philadelphia Eagles superstar quarterback Jalen Hurts flatly refused to wear a league-issued armband during a pre-game ceremony on Sunday. The armband was part of a league-wide initiative intended to highlight social awareness, but Hurts openly criticized the movement as “unnecessary,” insisting that the NFL should “focus on football, not politics.” The incident unfolded just moments before kickoff at Lincoln Financial Field, where the Eagles were set to take on a fierce NFC rival. While most players across the league complied with the league directive, cameras caught Hurts pointedly declining the accessory, jogging onto the field without it. His decision instantly became a lightning rod, sparking reactions that continue to ripple through the sports world. Hurts’ Statement Speaking candidly to reporters in the post-game press conference, Hurts did not shy away from his reasoning. “I respect everyone’s views and personal choices,” Hurts said. “But at the end of the day, I came here to play football. The league shouldn’t be forcing us into gestures that go beyond the game. Fans pay to watch us compete, not to see us make political statements. Football should be about football.” The quarterback’s remarks were delivered in his usual calm, confident tone, but the message was unmistakable. Hurts made it clear that he believes the NFL is veering into territory that risks alienating players and fans alike. League Reaction The NFL quickly issued a statement late Sunday night, acknowledging Hurts’ decision but also standing by its initiative. “The league supports efforts that promote inclusivity and unity,” the statement read. “While participation in such initiatives is encouraged, players retain personal freedom regarding involvement.” Behind the scenes, however, league insiders described Hurts’ refusal as “a direct challenge” to the NFL’s branding strategy. His comments, widely circulated on social media, have already sparked discussions in ownership meetings and front offices about how much latitude players should have in publicly rejecting league campaigns. Eagles Organization Responds The Philadelphia Eagles, meanwhile, moved swiftly to manage the fallout. Head Coach Nick Sirianni downplayed the controversy, emphasizing that Hurts’ focus remains on football. “Jalen is a competitor and a leader for this team,” Sirianni told reporters. “We’re not going to let outside distractions derail our season. He’s entitled to his opinion, and as an organization, we respect individual expression.” Several teammates echoed similar sentiments, noting that Hurts has always been outspoken but deeply committed to the Eagles locker room. “That’s Jalen,” said one veteran lineman. “He’s going to say what he feels. But when the ball is snapped, you know he’s going to give 100 percent for us.” Fans and Media Split Unsurprisingly, Hurts’ stance has divided fans and analysts. Some applauded his refusal, praising him for speaking up against what they see as “forced messaging” in sports. Others condemned him, arguing that his actions undermine the NFL’s efforts to promote unity and inclusivity. On social media, hashtags supporting Hurts trended alongside hashtags criticizing him, creating a digital tug-of-war that only amplified the story. Sports talk shows across the country devoted entire segments to the issue, with commentators debating whether Hurts was exercising admirable independence or recklessly alienating fans. The Bigger Picture Hurts’ bold decision is just the latest example of athletes challenging the intersection of sports and social movements. Over the past decade, the NFL has frequently found itself balancing the demands of players, fans, sponsors, and advocacy groups. Hurts’ refusal illustrates how complex and divisive these issues remain. For now, the league has chosen not to punish him, but some insiders speculate that pressure could mount if other players follow his lead. “If this spreads, the NFL has a real problem on its hands,” one league source said. “They don’t want to look like they’re forcing players, but they also can’t afford to have their initiatives undermined.” Moving Forward Despite the off-field storm, Hurts’ on-field performance remains electric. Against all the noise, he put up another strong showing, passing for over 300 yards and throwing a crucial touchdown that helped lift the Eagles to victory. His play reminded everyone why he remains one of the league’s most dynamic and essential quarterbacks. As the Eagles push deeper into the season, the question remains: will Hurts’ stance remain an isolated incident, or will it ignite a broader wave of player pushback against NFL-driven campaigns? One thing is certain — Jalen Hurts has once again proven he is not afraid to make headlines both on and off the field. And in a league constantly under the spotlight, his refusal has ensured the conversation around the NFL extends far beyond the gridiron.