Ryan Shazier, the former linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has formally initiated divorce proceedings from his wife Michelle. This move follows Michelle’s public accusations of infidelity against him, which surfaced about one and a half months ago.

In late November, Michelle made these damning allegations on Instagram, expressing her suspicions about Shazier’s unfaithfulness. She shared a sequence of screenshots, purportedly containing text messages exchanged between Shazier and an individual named Marie. One particular message raised eyebrows, indicating that Shazier had sent books, including guides on intimate activities.

The deleted screenshots can be reviewed for more context.

The post, which has since been removed, featured a strongly worded caption from Michelle expressing her discontent:

“A person who claims to love his family… this is the way they treat their family… the WIFE… who has been there for him since the beginning! It’s infidelity at its peak! I can’t continue to conceal it. You can have it. I deserve better. This is Ryan… he’s deceitful and unfaithful!”

Following the grave accusations, Ryan Shazier has responded to the situation. The 31-year-old athlete confirmed that he and Michelle are currently residing separately and going through a period of separation. Shazier released a statement to TMZ, stating:

“Michelle and I have been living apart and are currently separated. As we work through what comes next for our family, I ask for privacy and prayers.”

It’s worth noting that Ryan Shazier and his now-estranged wife, Michelle Rodriguez, got married in 2019.

Back in 2014, Ryan Shazier was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft and inked a four-year contract with the team, amounting to $9.50 million, inclusive of a $5.23 million signing bonus.

In his inaugural season as the starting left inside linebacker, Shazier showcased potential, although he encountered some injuries. Throughout his rookie season, he recorded 36 tackles in five starts and eight games.

Continuing as the primary inside linebacker in 2015, Shazier overcame injury setbacks and made substantial contributions, concluding the season with 87 tackles, 3½ sacks, and an interception in 12 starts and 12 games. He played a crucial role in the AFC wild-card game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

In 2016, Shazier continued to excel, showcasing notable achievements in interceptions and sacks. Despite facing injuries, he remained a key player for the Steelers, finishing the regular season with 87 tackles, 9 pass deflections, 3½ sacks, and 3 interceptions in 12 starts and 13 games. His impact extended into the playoffs.