Recently retired Pittsburgh Steelers legendary quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger joined the 102.5 WDVE radio show Thursday morning. After previous comments earlier in the week via Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the former QB was highly criticized, even by defensive team captain, Cam Heyward.
Roethlisberger was quick to apologize for how his comments may have come off, stating that throwing specific players under the bus wasn't his intention, but Thursday, the 2x Super Bowl Champion made sure to give some extremely high praise for some of his past teammates.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - SEPTEMBER 14: Ben Roethlisberger #7 talks to JuJu Smith-Schuster #19 of the Pittsburgh Steelers ahead of a regular season game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on September 14, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Benjamin Solomon/Getty Images)
Roethlisberger had the privilege of playing with former Steelers receiver (now with the Kansas City Chiefs), JuJu Smith-Schuster for five seasons. During his time in Pittsburgh, Smith-Schuster accumulated 323 receptions for 3,855 receiving yards, and 26 touchdowns.
"I love that guy," Roethlisberger commented. "He played throughout so much injury, so much pain. I know people don't know what to think with social media and all that stuff, but when it came time for football, it didn't get in the way. He gave everything."
Speaking of receivers, Roethlisberger has been known to have past altercations with the infamous and misunderstood, Antonio Brown. The two will go down as arguably one of the best QB-WR duos in NFL history. It was nothing but love however, from the former All-Pro.
"He [AB] was special. The things he could do on a football field was through the roof."
Former Pittsburgh Steelers teammates, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (left) and Antonio Brown (right). | Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images
When it came to second-year running back, Najee Harris, Roethlisberger had the opportunity to play with the rising superstar ball-carrier in his rookie year last season. Roethlisberger has always been a huge Harris advocate and Thursday was no different:
"...Really, really good football player. Has the ability to be a great leader for that offense. Not sure if he'll be that vocal, 'rah-rah' leader; I see him as a guy that's going to lead by example."
Former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger (left) celebrates with running back, Najee Harris (right) at Heinz Field in 2021. | WTAE
Despite how Roethlisberger has come off in recent interviews, one thing is for sure, he's quick to give praise when praise is do. There has been a multitude of past and present players Roethlisberger has had the chance to play with, and even though he has come off as harsh at times, he definitely sees the value and talent he's played with.
Times are continuing to change; the way players go about their NFL schedules and daily workloads will continue to differ. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but Roethlisberger recognizes game when he sees it.
So, what do yinz think? Has Roethlisberger been a little too harsh in his recent comments? Or is he giving his teammates enough praise and justified criticism? Make sure to click to comment below!
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