Pittsburgh Steelers: 15 greatest first-round picks of all-time

Steelers 2004 first-round pick: QB Ben Roethlisberger

Ben Roethlisberger may be the most beloved and hated player in Steelers history. The future Pro Football Hall of Famer has secured his place as the greatest quarterback in franchise history, and without him, this team would be two Super Bowls shy of leading the NFL.

“Big Ben” has never been named NFL MVP, or led the NFL in passing yards or touchdowns. What he did do is lead a team to the top of the NFL, and continue to keep it there for 15 years.

Through six Pro Bowls, two Super Bowl rings and countless unbelievable plays, Big Ben has become a legend in Pittsburgh. One of the toughest players to ever touch a field, his Steeler attitude is like no other.

From day one, the No. 11 overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft out of Miami (Ohio) made it known he’s a force in the league. He started with a record-setting season, and he’s hoping to leave with one as well.

But no matter what, one thing is certain for the ending of Roethlisberger’s career; he’s going to end up back where he started. Only this time, he’ll be putting on a gold jacket and giving his speech as he enters to Pro Football Hall of Fame.