In the world of Pittsburgh Steelers football, not many names carry the weight that the name Ben Roethlisberger does. The quarterback is often the central figure around whom a team's fortunes revolve. For the Steelers' wide receiver Diontae Johnson, the transition from playing with a legendary quarterback like Roethlisberger, to a promising young quarterback like Kenny Pickett, has brought about significant differences in his role and experiences on the field.
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Pittsburgh Steelers retired quarterback Ben Roethlisberger owned the quarterback position in Pittsburgh throughout his career.
Johnson's insights into the contrasting dynamics of playing with Roethlisberger and Pickett were revealed during his recent appearance on the "Not Just Football" podcast hosted by Steelers defensive lineman, Cam Heyward. The conversation shed light on how two distinct quarterbacks have influenced his career.
Roethlisberger, a true icon in the Steelers' franchise, played a remarkable 18 seasons with the team, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise's history. Over the course of his illustrious career, Roethlisberger amassed 64,088 passing yards and threw 418 touchdowns. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Steelers to two Super Bowl titles. Johnson acknowledged Roethlisberger's legacy, underscoring the significant contrast in playing with him compared to a budding talent like Pickett.
"So much different, I am not going to lie because he [Roethlisberger] was a Hall of Fame quarterback.”
The sheer magnitude of Roethlisberger's career speaks for itself, and the impact he had on the Steelers' organization is immeasurable. Johnson's candid acknowledgment of Roethlisberger's future Hall of Fame status underscores the vast gap that needed to be bridged when transitioning to a new quarterback. However, Johnson also expressed his admiration for Pickett's potential.
"Kenny, I would say, you know he's working his way towards Ben's level in his own way.”
The journey of a young quarterback in the NFL is characterized by growth and learning, and Johnson was quick to highlight the strides Pickett has made.
"He is still growing and learning. Not taking anything from his game at all. Kenny is a great quarterback.”
The prospect of playing with a quarterback like Pickett, who is carving his own path in the league, holds great promise for the Steelers' future.
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To illustrate the significant shift in his playing experiences, Johnson shared a personal anecdote from his rookie year. Johnson entered the league when Roethlisberger was in the midst of his 16th season, and the story he recounted is indicative of the expectations and challenges he faced.
"I would say my rookie year of training camp. I ran the wrong route, and Ben dropped the ball and just walked down to the other side.”
The interaction between Roethlisberger and Johnson was a poignant moment that had a lasting impact on the young receiver.
"He told me to go to the other line, and he didn't throw it to me the rest of the practice."
The incident served as a valuable lesson for Johnson, who recognized the high standards set by a seasoned veteran. When Heyward, the host of the podcast, inquired about the purpose behind Roethlisberger's actions, Johnson provided valuable insight.
"I am in the league now. This isn't college anymore. I have to be on my stuff. That day forward, I was in my playbook every day.”
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The return of wideout Diontae Johnson should help the offense's early season struggles, as he is the best route runner on the team.
Steelers' Johnson Is Player He Is Today Because Of Both QBs
The experience with Roethlisberger was a crucial turning point in his career, highlighting the rigorous demands of the NFL and the need for meticulous preparation. Johnson's journey from playing with a legendary figure like Roethlisberger to a rising star like Pickett encapsulates the evolution of a player in the ever-changing landscape of the NFL.
The contrasting experiences, leadership styles, and expectations have contributed to Johnson's growth and development as a wide receiver. As the Steelers continue to shape their future with Pickett at the helm, Johnson's insights serve as a valuable perspective on the team's ongoing transition and the promise of a bright future.
What are your thoughts on Johnson's comparison of Roethlisberger and Pickett? Will Pickett ever reach the level Roethlisberger did throughout his playing career? Click to comment below!
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