Ben Roethlisberger is nearing the end of his storied career with his Steelers. Here are five quarterbacks who could replace him when he walks away.
It seems like it’s been ages since the Pittsburgh Steelers fanbase was introduced to a 22-year-old freshman hotshot who tore through the league in his first 14 starts, even snapping the New England Patriots’ record 21-game winning streak. Over a decade and a half later, that same passer ranks as an all-timer in career passing yards (59,650) and touchdowns (390.) He’s collected two Lombardi Trophies, been named to a half-dozen Pro Bowls, and has led the league in passing twice.
Today, Ben Roethlisberger is the Steelers unquestioned veteran leader. But, there are indications that his age is catching up to him, highlighted by his missing the Steelers’ last 15 games of the 2019 season after tearing flexor tendons in his right elbow.
In Pittsburgh’s Sunday night loss to Josh Allen and Buffalo Sunday night, Ben posted a 65.9 passer rating, his lowest since last year’s season opener against New England. He stressed after the game that he needs to play better or hang his cleats up.
He is all that an entire generation has known behind center for the Steelers. Undeniably, the wisdom and experience he provides are invaluable. After last year’s mediocre fill-in play from Mason Rudolph and Devlin Hodges, though, it’s time to begin thinking of a successor for the most decorated passer in Pittsburgh’s annals.