Gregory Payan/Associated Press

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier has been dealing with a sprained MCL that's kept him out since Week 4, but he is ready to return.

Continue for updates.

Shazier Active vs. Patriots

Sunday, Oct. 23

Bob Labriola of Steelers.com announced that Shazier is available to play in Week 7 against the New England Patriots.

Shazier Comments on Playing Status

Thursday, Oct. 20

According to Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network, Shazier expects to play on Sunday.

Shazier Crucial to Steelers Defense

Shazier is among the most talented players on the Pittsburgh defense, contributing 20 combined tackles and an interception this season before the injury.

While the 24-year-old has the makings of a superstar, staying on the field has been a significant issue for him over the course of his first three NFL seasons.

After missing seven games as a rookie in 2014, Shazier had a breakout campaign in 2015 with 87 tackles, 3.5 sacks and one interception, all of which were career highs. He sat out for four games, however, which prevented him from maximizing his potential.

Shazier's durability concerns became apparent again early in 2016, as he was forced to leave Pittsburgh's season-opening win over the Washington Redskins after suffering a knee injury.

The former first-round pick out of Ohio State adds speed, athleticism and explosiveness at the linebacker position when he plays, but the Steelers haven't always been able to count on that being the case.

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