:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/33559447/491349521.0.jpg)
It didn't take long for the Steelers coaching staff to show their current thoughts on where Shazier will be on the first snap of the season.
He'll be next to starting inside linebacker Lawrence Timmons. Just like he was on the first snap of OTAs.
While it's not a guarantee he'll be a starter when the Steelers host the Cleveland Browns in Week 1, the fact that the is being placed in that position so early on in the team's calendar shows what they expect out of the linebacker out of Ohio State.
When the Steelers selected Shazier with the 15th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, they drafted a playmaker with outstanding speed, quickness and agility. It will be those tools and assets that will not only have Shazier finding the field and contributing, but making plays for a defense looking to replace at least five starters from last year's team - the first Steelers defense to finish out of the top 10 in total defense since defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau assumed the role in 2004.