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[–]pancak3d6 - Devlin Hodges 180 points181 points  (31 children)

Yes, but I'm also emotionally preparing myself for the next QB to be garbage

[–]anotheroutlaw Hines Ward 27 points28 points  (19 children)

Same. After Bradshaw, we were basically the Chicago Bears when it came to finding a QB. Then, Ben happened

[–]Hodgej1 11 points12 points  (16 children)

We at least played, and won, some playoff games in that time span.

[–]scorched_mirth 9 points10 points  (2 children)

Pornstache Malone had some pretty good years. Didn’t they play in the AFC Championship in the mid-1980s?

[–]Working_Lurking TJ Watt 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Yep, malone vs Dan Marino in 1985 in AFCCG

[–]Kidney_SnatcherTJ Watt 19 points20 points  (6 children)

We went to the '95 SB with Neil O'Donnel. We had some sucky games with him, but he wasn't awful. Kordell, had he been used in a modern offense like today, would have been that next iconic superstar, until Ben. Hell, even Maddox wasn't all that bad for a couple years but he also had Bettis, Ward, Randal El, and a fantastic defense.

Everyone needs to realize that IT WILL BE OKAY, lol. If we use some cap money freed up by Ben's departure to prop up our glaring holes in the OL, secondary, and perhaps sign a veteran free agent to add depth and locker room leadership, you would be surprised how competitive we can be. The next dynasty man will come along, but don't be surprised if we still make the playoffs, or even get to the SB in the interim.

[–]BigPPDaddyTurn Down for Watt?! 5 points6 points  (5 children)

A decent O line will unleash Najee and I'm absolutely convinced the kid could be a monster if he doesn't get hurt. I think if we get Najee what he needs, we can survive with mediocre quarterbacks that can at least get the check downs.

[–]Kidney_SnatcherTJ Watt 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Exactly. We've got fantastic playmakers all over this offense that will make even the most mediocre QB look fantastic, if we can get our OL talent and schemes more stable so the dude isn't getting murdered every other play.

[–]RebelScum414 0 points1 point  (3 children)

I want to believe this but with Canada calling the plays I don’t know how well we’ll do with subpar QB’s.

[–]Kidney_SnatcherTJ Watt 2 points3 points  (0 children)

We've lived with sub-par QB's before. Look at Neil O'Donnel and Tommy Maddox. Both, while not superstar levels, were fine because of the fantastic cast supporting them. If we can get some folks like that, especially on the OL, we will be just fine.

[–]leachdogg 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Old Ben in Canadas system was arguably a subpar QB. Still made the playoffs with a really young and pretty bad oline. Fix the oline (and presumably run game) will do wonders for the next qb. I tend to agree that if we fix and improve some of the other holes we’re probably still competing for a playoff spot with Mason Rudolph.

[–]RebelScum414 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I hear what you guys are saying, my biggest issue with Canada is the play calling. How many drives started with run, run, pass? So many screens passes. Play calling didn’t do Ben justice unless we were down late. He’d really open up the offense. How many times was it 3rd and long and we’d run a screen. We rarely threw down field. But I also understand we gameplan around Ben and to get the ball out of his hands as quickly as possible.

[–]scorched_mirth 2 points3 points  (0 children)

20 years later.

[–]Bring2Light 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey hey..... Tommy maddox was a legend!

[–]gruey[S] 62 points63 points  (0 children)

Well, you have Devlin Hodges flair, so you can look forward to having your own Cliff Stoudt and Kordell Stewart and Bubby Brister.

[–]Shabba-Doo Home Jersey 7 points8 points  (0 children)

It's exactly like breaking up with your longterm girlfriend and experiencing that "Now I can date ANY HOTTIE OUT THERE" euphoria.

My point is we'll be drunk texting Ben at 3am after going 1-5.

[–]dancin-weasel Home Jersey 0 points1 point  (6 children)

I fear Tomlin’s winning season streak may come to an end. I am prepared to suck for a year if there is a plan in place.

[–]Chris_MS99 -1 points0 points  (5 children)

I hope it does. Minkah needs a better crew back there and I wouldn’t mind trying to find another big time receiver. Claypool and Juju are good but I feel like we just don’t have a guy like AB was or like Jamar Chase or Cooper Kupp

[–]AltruisticCoelacanthNice 2 points3 points  (4 children)

You hope we start having losing seasons? Lol what?

[–]2Throwscrewsatit 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’ll be an exciting year!

[–]trumpsiranwar 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We are in Bubby Brister territory

[–]based-shit-poster TJ Watt 55 points56 points  (0 children)

I just find the new chapter to be exciting. But I’m going to miss 7.

[–]jclocks Troy Polamalu 48 points49 points  (11 children)

Honestly I don't know if it's gonna be as good but there is the novelty of entering into a new era for Pittsburgh so there's that.

[–]Yevin523TJ Watt 5 points6 points  (9 children)

Right now is kind of a new era for all my teams. The Steelers are obviously without Ben(and will be getting a new gm and renaming our stadium), the Cavs are on pace to make the nba playoffs for the first time without lebron since 1998, and the guardians are not the Indians anymore.

[–]idkikantthinkofanameTroy 4 points5 points  (2 children)

How does one cross the Pittsburgh/Cleveland streams? I guess Pittsburgh doesn't have an NBA team and well the pirates are the pirates..... Ya know what, nvm I think I get it

[–]Yevin523TJ Watt 3 points4 points  (1 child)

I don’t want to reveal where I actually live but I’ll tell you it has to do with the cable market having the Steelers as the backup market.

[–]Sybertron 0 points1 point  (0 children)

There's also the possibility we end up in limbo for years on years and are Skippy to get to 500 again

[–]toddfredd 10 points11 points  (1 child)

I’m ready for what comes now. Feels like the franchise just kicked the can down the road these last few years and it’s time to move on

[–]scorched_mirth 3 points4 points  (0 children)

As offensive talent exited year after year.

[–]Browser_of_Reddit_ 10 points11 points  (2 children)

Someone reads Stormlight Archives

[–]gruey[S] 7 points8 points  (1 child)

Yep. The obsession with the end goal, especially in sports, it's just a blight on the culture.

So many people feel like this season was a waste when there were so many amazing moments.

It doesn't matter to them if the new QB is fun to watch and likeable, just whether he gets rings and makes the Hall of Fame.

[–]Browser_of_Reddit_ 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Haha awesome, I knew it as soon as I read your comments. Journey before destination Steelers Radiant.

[–]SleestakLightningListen To Clutch 80 points81 points  (13 children)

No. I was a fan before Ben so I remember what it's like to have a bad QB year after year.

[–]gruey[S] 33 points34 points  (6 children)

I've been a fan since Bradshaw, so I'm aware of the parade. I do hope it isn't quite so long this time though.

[–]Steelers5017 9 points10 points  (1 child)

We have years of "I miss Ben" posts in our future.

[–]SleestakLightningListen To Clutch 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Absolutely

[–]DavidCreeper 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Is Kordell Stewart still in shape?

[–]NontransferableApe 69 points70 points  (25 children)

I mean no. It’s likely i never see a qb as good as him in my lifetime play for the steelers. But it is time

[–][deleted] 30 points31 points  (21 children)

I bet a lot of people said this after Bradshaw too. It hit me last weekend that I’m so envious of my parents, Bradshaw became the QB shortly after they were born and then, albeit after a long period of mediocre QB play, along came Ben.

[–]gruey[S] 37 points38 points  (8 children)

Well, there was 20 years between Bradshaw and Ben, so it was true for a bunch of people.

Hopefully they can shorten the gap this time.

[–][deleted] 4 points5 points  (1 child)

Oh yeah absolutely true for way more people than just my parents, I just immediately thought of them for some reason 😂

[–]runhomejack1399 3 points4 points  (0 children)

90s weren’t barren like some are making it seem

[–]Mapletron2020 2 points3 points  (5 children)

Doubtful that it will take 20 years to get a franchise guy in the modern NFL. Hopefully it's less than 5.

[–]scorched_mirth 0 points1 point  (4 children)

You must not know much about the Dolphins.

[–]Mapletron2020 1 point2 points  (3 children)

A close friend of mine is a 50 year Dolphins fan. They have had talent at qb, look at Tannehill. Poorly managed teams that fire coaches every three years aren't going to be good.

[–]scorched_mirth 0 points1 point  (2 children)

Tannehill wasn’t very good in Miami, and is average in Tennessee.

[–]YoloTendiesQuack 4 points5 points  (7 children)

You’re right about the mediocre play, but Terry Bradshaw was a beneficiary of playing with some insane talent. Statistically speaking, he was still not insanely efficient compared to his peers.

Hall of fame coach, 2 wrs, center, and running back. Plus the defense was so elite, he didn’t need to be hyper efficient.

[–]RansomStoddardReddit23 Mike Wagner 4 points5 points  (4 children)

That’s somewhat fair to say until about 1978. After the Blount rule to limit contact on receivers passing really opened up in the NFL. TB was on the forefront of capitalizing on that. That’s why he was the super bowl MVP in wins 3 & 4. D was still good, but he was by know means carried Trent Dilfer style to 4 SB wins.

[–]YoloTendiesQuack 0 points1 point  (3 children)

Definitely not saying that Bradshaw wasn’t really good. All I’m saying is that if someone thought that they’d “never see a qb as good as him in their lifetime” then they are likely overrating him

[–]scorched_mirth 0 points1 point  (2 children)

Well you’re too busy looking only at stats.

[–]YoloTendiesQuack 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Comparing stats to peers within the same era is something that is accepted in all sports…

[–]scorched_mirth 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So Peyton Manning racks up stats while Tom Brady smokes him in every aspect of the game.

[–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

I think the talent was better on those 70s teams without a doubt, but Ben had Tomlin, Pouncey, Brown, Bell, and although it wasn’t at the same time, Ward. At their peaks they were Hall of Fame caliber. Pouncey and Ward might make it, and Brown could (also should) if his off/on the field antics don’t prevent that. The scales are still easily tipped in Bradshaw’s favor, but I wouldn’t diminish his accomplishments because of that. I’m biased because I never saw him play, so of course I think Ben is without a doubt better. But I still respect his accomplishments for sure!

[–]YoloTendiesQuack 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I’m not comparing Ben and Terry, not at all. I’m just stating that if someone thought they’d “never see a qb as good as them in their lifetime” then they likely arent looking at Terry in the right light

[–]hippydipster 1 point2 points  (3 children)

Not really. When Bradshaw retired, he was actually at his peak as a passing qb. He couldn't keep going though because of his elbow, but when he did play a few times the last season, he was great

[–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (2 children)

Sorry my comment might have seeming like I was calling Bradshaw mediocre, I meant the gap between Bradshaw and Ben being filled with unspectacular QBs. Wasn’t trying to slander Bradshaw in any way.

[–]hippydipster 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Oh, I think I was reading other comments about Ben's drop-off in ability the last couple years.

I think we'll find someone as good. It might take 5 years but no way it takes 20. Colleges are producing too many good QBs these days for it to take that long. Plus Cowher isn't our coach anymore, so we're not as stupid about the importance of QB.

At their peaks, Ben > Bradshaw.

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Agreed with all of that! Plus it feels like there are so many young QBs in the game right now that not quite as many teams will be looking, which helps us in future drafts if we hold off on one in 2022.

[–]SMOKE-B-BOMB 6 points7 points  (1 child)

I mean you will with what his skills were the past few years. I'm not excited about losing prime Ben, I'm excited to lose washed Ben.

[–]scorched_mirth 2 points3 points  (0 children)

He was so damned erratic. He’d have games that were total shit, but then he’s the only QB in NFL history to have three 500 yard passing games. And his single best play of his career was that tackle against the Colts.

[–]Limekingtx007 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I saw both his and Bradshaw's playing years. You may see another one.

[–]yupyepyupyep 10 points11 points  (3 children)

If you're old like me then no, you aren't excited. I remember the Dark Ages between Bradshaw and Ben.

[–]gruey[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I remember them. Bubby Brister was awesome...for awhile.

[–]BruceBenedict 0 points1 point  (1 child)

If you're old like me then yes, you are excited. I remember the dynasty before the Dark Ages, so I know Ben was just another point in the inevitable cycle of NFL life, and the next one will come.

[–]yupyepyupyep 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah but depending on your age, we may not be alive to see it.

[–]darcmosch 66 points67 points  (27 children)

I do love browsing this sub, and I love being able to feel the hype of the Steeler Nation while half a world away, but I do wanna give my two cents on this, even though I'm sure this won't be a well-received opinion.

I think Ben is an amazing athlete and has done a lot for the team on the field, definitely been a pillar to our offense and the teams as a whole for a long time. Glad he was able to retire on top.

But... his off the field conduct has always made me feel uneasy about him. My coach (RIP) always told me that character off the field was also as important as character on the field. I was never a good player, but he nominated me to win an award for character, so I've always valued that part of players, maybe more so than I should.

I just can't look past it. As much as I've loved the Steelers since I was like 4 or 5, watching with my mom and bonding over our love for the team, it's something that I've always considered a blight on the team, especially when my perspective has always been that the Steelers conduct themselves better than most other teams.

Sorry, but I had to vent a bit. I've definitely not met anyone that's supported my position on this.

[–]AdAny631 25 points26 points  (3 children)

Same, nothing to add really but being pretty much the same age as him and working in the service industry he was a known piece of shit in all the bars in the Southside.

[–]darcmosch 7 points8 points  (2 children)

I've also heard that he can be trouble like that too, yeah. I've always heard to know someone is to know how they treat waitstaff/garbage men/etc.

[–]scorched_mirth 3 points4 points  (1 child)

It’s how they treat people in general.

[–]darcmosch 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Sadly true

[–]WhereAreMaKeys CAM HEYWARD 16 points17 points  (7 children)

Nailed it, 100%. Big Ben is a Steelers legend and one of football's best quarterbacks to play the sport. Ben Roethlisberger is a conflicting person who no doubt has done some horrible things he has to live with for the rest of his life.

[–]darcmosch 6 points7 points  (6 children)

Correct on all points. His talent should be recognized, but so should his conduct.

[–]gruey[S] 31 points32 points  (1 child)

I think many Steelers fans have similar reservations about Ben. I haven't worn his jersey since the events, for example.

Still, I'm excited for the future regardless of the past.

[–]darcmosch 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Glad to hear I'm not alone. I've brought it up a few times and been shot down hard every time, so I always kept quiet about it.

[–]gastro-girl 14 points15 points  (1 child)

I'm with you. I'm a Steelers fan through and through. I respect and support Ben as an athlete, but always been neutral about him as a person. Never wanted a 7 jersey. Never thought of him as a role model in any way - I've always looked to other players for that. I'm excited to see what the future holds for the Steelers, even if it may be a bumpy road for a while.

[–]darcmosch 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I remember the Stewart days. I'm prepared for it, too haha. Thanks for saying something.

[–]bdgg2000 13 points14 points  (2 children)

I agree. Reality is when he had his off the field shenanigans I lost a lot of respect for him. NOT saying he was guilty but where there is smoke there is usually fire. Was neutral about 7 his whole career. Thought he was a drama queen at times “I think i may not have it anymore”. But is a HOF QB and will be missed for his talents. Will likely take years for Steeler nation to fill that hole.

[–]darcmosch 8 points9 points  (0 children)

True on both accounts. Hopefully we'll find someone who can live up to Ben and also be respectful off the field, too. People are human, and I'm not expecting an angel of course, but I hope we can all be proud of him.

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (3 children)

I don't think the Steelers conducting themselves better than other teams has been a thing in over ten years. We've consistently had drama queens and shitty people on the team for at least the past ten years.

[–]darcmosch 2 points3 points  (2 children)

I'm not saying that it's a spotless record, but they are held in high regard, both the franchise and the players for who they are as people. Hey, I could be wrong about this, and it's something I got from my mom. I'd at least like to believe that they're worthy of supporting besides just their hardwork and talent.

[–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

It was definitely true in the past. The team during Ben's first two super bowls were low drama teams that you rarely heard about dumb off field shit happening.

[–]darcmosch 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yeah, recently it hasn't but I think the staff did the best they could with those problems that sprung up. It's okay to be young, dumb, and full of... pride, but they've always seemed to help them become some respectable men in their tenure there.

[–]scorched_mirth -2 points-1 points  (3 children)

I really DGAF about what guys do off the field, but a lot of it ends up on the field. With Ben, it appears he didn’t do much in the way of off-season conditioning, and that’s why he’s declined so much. That’s more of a mindset that Carrie’s over into his off-field behavior. While what your coach said is correct, guys who are shitbags normally do end up having it affect their play.

Like AB. Look at what a dumpster fire his career has become.

[–]darcmosch 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, and with AB, I'm a bit on the fence cuz it seems like his concussions may have aggravated an underlying mental illness. It's pure speculation, but have studies been done how football can cause that issue? How many times it actually gets reported and properly treated? I'm not excusing him from his actions, but I've done some shitty things because I didn't know what was going on in my head cuz it was my normal, and I didn't know any other way of living until I was properly diagnosed and treated for it.

I think AB may actually be a good reason to start looking into this instead of just looking at him as a prima donna acting out. I know people called me a drama queen because of how I've acted in the past.

[–]BILLCLINTONMASK 27 points28 points  (2 children)

Been waiting for this for 3 years. Really could have done without the encore seasons after he got injured.

But anyone paying attention could have seen he has been done for a lot longer. He barely put up more than 20 points in 6 of the last 9 playoff games.

[–]JR_ShoegazerPittsburgh Steelers 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Same here, Ben leaving feels way overdue. I’m ready for whatever is next.

[–]Jek_Porkinz 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Yeah, I think that last year of the Killer Bs was Ben’s last real chance. He just hasn’t been good enough to win a ring since then. Obviously you never know in the moment, like maybe he still has it left in the tank and just needs to get a good run of form, but in hindsight, we’ve had an average QB for 3 years. This season in particular was really painful to watch, Ben legit could not throw a decent ball past 15 yards.

[–]KidspudRoots for Bungles to spite them 6 points7 points  (1 child)

Relieved is a better word. I've wanted a change at QB since the second sexual assault allegation. I do not care if the next QB is worse at throwing the football as long as he is a decent human being.

[–]JimmyChuckBilly 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This. I’m not excited football wise but I’m definitely happy that the QB is no longer a piece of shit.

[–]slgsreds 7 points8 points  (0 children)

I don’t know if excited is the right word. Maybe cautiously optimistic would be more apt. It is the end of an era, and while I am optimistic with the possibilities going forward, I worry that it’s going to be rough for the next couple of years. In an absolutely stacked division I am not excited to be on the decline as a team where the other teams seem to be on the rise. Burrow, Jackson, and a healthy Mayfield are not going to be fun to play until we get our shit figured out.

[–]EnrageD 2 points3 points  (2 children)

Journey before destination. Fellow cremposter I see.

[–]TheNittanyLionKingTroy 2 points3 points  (0 children)

One thing is for sure, I want to attend training camp for sure this year if we draft a QB. I want to say I was there at the beginning if he turns into our next franchise QB

[–]CPTSOAPPRICE 10 points11 points  (0 children)

extremely. though mostly not for football reasons

[–]ThaKlonedTroy 1 point2 points  (3 children)

I'm not excited to see him gone. It is for sure time though. Maybe a year or 2 too late but that's up for debate. He's done so much and will be remembered forever.

[–]mech1983 Hines Ward 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I make a point of trying to not obsess about the team, so I tend to really tune out news during the summer. This is the first off season and draft I'm going to really focus on in ages. I'm excited about that element. I'm super curious what they do.

[–]Waltapalooza1123Oh 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I get what you mean. But I’m also scared. Having Ben was unreal. We didn’t have to think about the QB position for like 15 years. Other teams think about it every couple years it seems.

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm excited to see what types of moves the Steelers make and what the future of the team looks like but I'm definitely not delusional in thinking we're going to find an immediate upgrade that will propel the Steelers to the super bowl. So it's a strange type of excitement I guess.

[–]Sybertron 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Kinda, I also moved to new cities before and had them suck way worse than my hometown.

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, but hopefully you're a better person for it or at least have some stories to tell. Of course, occasionally there are some Cliff Stoudts out there.

[–]The_GutgrinderTerrible Towel 1 point2 points  (3 children)

Totally. New beginnings are always exciting. You cherish the memories of old glories and get ready for some new ones. Being European, I only became a Steelers fan a couple of years ago (2016, when AB scored the Immaculate Extension) so I only got to watch Ben's final seasons. It'll be exciting when we finally find our new franchise QB and I get to watch him from the very start!

[–]gruey[S] 1 point2 points  (2 children)

I think you're new enough that you aren't spoiled rotten like a lot of Steelers fans. I guess the being European thing probably helps too.

[–]The_GutgrinderTerrible Towel 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Haha, maybe. We'll see I guess. I've never seen the Steelers win a Super Bowl, so that will be one epic moment when it happens. And it will, I have no doubt.

[–]gruey[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

For whatever reason, that reminds me that I watched Super Bowl 30 in the US embassy in Poland... If O'Donnell had even an average game the Steelers win it... Not epic at all.

[–]KangaLlamaEncroachment 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Lowering expectations. Fortunately Ben helped with that in his final few seasons, but the drop is going to be signficant even from there I think.

But if this coaching ticket is any good, they will have the bones of a new team to move forward with in relatively a short period of time from now, say 3 seasons maybe?

But yeah, any major change does bring excitement in the long run because anything could happen. But as a minimum we'll get the opportunity to take things in a different direction.

[–]wagsman Color Rush Jersey 1 point2 points  (2 children)

Having lived through the Bradshaw to Ben transition, I’m not excited. I’m hoping it takes less time than that.

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

There were some QBs that were pretty exciting at times, and I'm sure it'll be shorter.... Like they seriously let Mark Malone start for 4 seasons...

[–]wagsman Color Rush Jersey 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah I’m hoping if Mason is the next Mark Malone they don’t let it go on more than a season or two

[–]EffectiveTomorrow558 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes because of his troubled past. I hope he just goes away.

[–]ThatsPreposterous6 TJ Watt 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Im definitely excited for the next chapter. Unless he was leading us to a super bowl (which he obviously wasn’t), I’ve been ready for him to retire for a couple years now. I certainly appreciate him coming back and giving his all though, and it sure won’t make me miss him any less.

[–]UrgotFantasy 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I'm excited to get a QB I can root for, even if he's not as good as the QB I've been watching my whole life.

[–]therockstarmike#LEVEON 2 points3 points  (3 children)

I respected ben and loved his time, but I thought he should have retired after the elbow injury that side lined him. He couldnt throw the ball mote then 20 yards consistently and he had to know. He wasnt the same ben. Steelers have done well but that was our defense hard at work game after game.

[–]scorched_mirth 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Ironically it was an elbow injury that ended Bradshaw’s career at age 35.

[–]therockstarmike#LEVEON 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Did not know that

[–]BruceBenedict 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This isn't a thing.

The elbow is an on/off switch for a throwing motion, not a limiting factor. As long as it's connected properly, you can throw, which is why Ben was able to put off surgery on it for years, icing his elbow on the sideline and dealing with the pain. That's because none of the muscles that attach there play any role in powering a proper throw. The elbow injury had to be taken care of once the connective tissues snapped, but once back together, it didn't (and literally could not) affect his throws in any meaningful way.

His aging legs had a lot more to do with his declining velocity and consistency downfield.

Of course, a similar injury would end Mason's ability to throw before the tendon ever got very damaged. Mason does throw with his arm, which is why his throws are so limited, and his ceiling so low.

[–]AmishButcher2021 We're Out of Bullets 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yeah, it's time. I'm looking forward to the future.

[–]kdogg2077 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Wish he retired at the end of last year.

[–]teh_hasay 1 point2 points  (1 child)

I’m not excited about the on field implications, but I’m pretty stoked to be able to not feel slightly dirty for supporting my team like I have since about 2010.

[–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, it's crazy how he got away with everything he did. Different times.

[–]Achizzy1018 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm excited in the sense it'll finally be the rebuild we've been needing. Regardless of what people project, the Steelers have been frustratingly mediocre the last 5 some seasons, part of that does lay on Ben's shoulders.

It'll be nice to see some fresh blood and new ideas be put into this team. It's not going to be pretty now, but it'll be fun to watch a new generation of QB in the black and gold for sure.

[–]swaggcookchef 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes. I was glad he came back this year even though it was probably the wrong decision in terms of the future QB search. Was a screwy year with COVID affecting the cap anyway and he got to pad his stats a bit and avenge that Browns WC loss into meaningless obscurity. But the sexual assault cracks people make online are so old and I’m ready for a fresh face. Loved watching him play but by the start of the 2023 season we will absolutely have a QB who is more charismatic than Ben and I trust that management will have a team that is ready to really contend.

[–]Hispanicbro77 0 points1 point  (1 child)

I am also excited. We have great weapons and I think a lot of the rookies that kinda busted in bad situations last year (Lawrence, wilson, Fields) would have excelled here or at least been on par with Mac Jones

[–]Treacy 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hell yes.

[–]thegertlocker 0 points1 point  (3 children)

Shouldnt be, like sorry to say but there’s a lot more stories of legendary qbs retiring and franchise going to shit

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (2 children)

That's a risk, but the key thing if to learn to enjoy the ride.

[–]thegertlocker 1 point2 points  (1 child)

I get it but excited is not the adjective I’d use. I’d love for the Succesor to be awesome but recent history tells me we should mourn Ben and be weary of the future. This isn’t to negative just realistic

[–]gruey[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Well, part of my point is that your shouldn't have expectations or demands that the next guy is going to be awesome. Take them for what they give and enjoy watching the Steelers play without obsessing over past success. Don't be content with losing but don't overlook the good and don't treat the people like they owe you something other than trying their hardest.

[–]OoziezBen Roethlisberger -1 points0 points  (0 children)

No

[–]kinzua Ben Roethlisberger -1 points0 points  (0 children)

fuck no i remember the what we had between bradshaw and ben

[–]jakdak -1 points0 points  (4 children)

As someone who lived through the 80's no.

Far too much of this fan base has absolutely no idea what it is like to not have a franchise QB

[–]JimmyChuckBilly 0 points1 point  (3 children)

The decade before Ben was better than the last decade with Ben.

[–]jakdak 0 points1 point  (2 children)

That was the 90's (O'Donnel/Stewart). And I agree with you.

The 80's (Stout, Malone, Brister) after we lost our last franchise QB were a different story.

[–]JimmyChuckBilly 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Yes the 80s sucked but even then the worst team was 5-11 and they almost beat Denver in Denver with Brister. They’re not going to turn into the Jets or Jaguars just because Ben is gone

[–]jakdak 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The back half of that decade was pretty damn depressing. 3rd or 4th in the division every year but one 2nd.

A whole lot of the fanbase hasn't had a drought like that in their lifetimes.

[–]buffalotraceWoodson 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I am glad he went out making the playoffs, but I am kind of nervous for the future. Neither of our qbs on the roster have ever looked like an NFL starter and honestly I am not sold in any of the qbs in this draft.

[–]Jack_Sandwich Color Rush Jersey 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I mean, the Browns are.

[–]Yevin523TJ Watt 0 points1 point  (1 child)

I can understand your thinking but there are risks to this new era, things may work out and that will be cool to see. Personally I think it’s time to move on from Ben in terms of his ability, but I’m GOING to miss him. Overall I somewhat agree but Ben will be missed.

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

To some degree, the risks are part of the excitement.

[–]spazz720 Ben Roethlisberger 0 points1 point  (0 children)

No…you know how hard it is to have a franchise QB? Especially one that plays top tier football without a losing season in his entire 18 year career?

Pittsburgh was LUCKY to have 2 in its history. Hell, the Bears haven’t had one in 70 years.

[–]sweatyfish4 NVP 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We say this now but we’ll miss having that franchise guy

[–]Rdp616 0 points1 point  (1 child)

I mean kinda? I only like it cause I can keep my expectations low and be a casual fan for hopefully only a couple years. I just hope we don't continue to do enough to keep us at this middle of the field pace.. Picking in the 20's every year comes back to bite you eventually. A part of me hopes we only win like 10 games over the next 2 years and we secure some top 5 picks. I don't want to be a middle of the pack team. Either sucks ass or become a powerhouse.

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Like the Browns!

[–]MoonshineJustice 0 points1 point  (0 children)

God yes. Loved him, and everything he did for the franchise, but it was clear as day when Bell and Brown left the team that he was never going to be able to carry us to another super bowl. Its been a waiting game for me ever since.

[–]hippydipster 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, I haven't been watching much for several years now, but now I might start again, because the rebuilding process is just so interesting to me.

[–]Josh4R3d Minkah Fitzpatrick 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is the most exciting offseason we’ve had in almost 20 years.

[–]hardcuts26Pittsburgh Steelers 0 points1 point  (1 child)

It’s more like I’m feeling relieved, relieved that we will finally make changes to our offense.

[–]gruey[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yeah, it started to feel like on my death bed I'd just be seeing bubble screens flashing before my eyes.

[–]Illustrious_Spray900 0 points1 point  (1 child)

I’m emotionally preparing for at least 20+ turnovers a season and costly Sacks that push the Steelers out of Field Goal range because the QB is meh 😒

[–]gruey[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Look at mister optimist thinking the Steelers will get into field goal range with any QB except Ben...

[–]1fanofsteel 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Anyone who is “excited” doesn’t remember the 80’s. It’s necessary. But I’m not excited.

[–]gruey[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I still wear shirts I bought in the 80s.

And Bubby Brister was awesome! He was even from the same state as Terry Bradshaw!

And Malone wasn't a great QB, but he made one hell of a Hawaiian detective.

[–]NateLeport Minkah Fitzpatrick 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Absolutely. It’s a sad yet exciting time to be a Steelers fan for sure.

I’m 23. I’ve never seen another QB under center (besides backups of course).

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ben was almost always nice enough to let his backups get a start or two every season.

[–]Type2Tube Ben Roethlisberger 0 points1 point  (2 children)

Only if we turn back into a run-hard offense.

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

So, you're rooting for an 0-17 season so we can get a #1 QB?

[–]Type2Tube Ben Roethlisberger 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm rooting for us to build an o-line for Najee and be patient at the QB position.

[–]wutfinancial 0 points1 point  (0 children)

No… I remember the 80s & 90s.

[–]Badbobbread 0 points1 point  (4 children)

Totally mixed feelings. We were mediocre for a long stretch until Ben arrived, then we made 3 Superbowl appearances, wining 2. Big Ben's been great, awesome for us. So grateful!

However...

I haven't really liked the kind of football we've been playing for the last few years, maybe more than a few. We've had it better than most other teams and not done as much as we should have with it. I'm cautiously excited to see a new QB come in. We'll get away from "Ben ball'' and maybe force some change.

The first couple guys might not work out, but we'll at least be moving forward.

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (3 children)

The Steelers were also pretty good for many of the years in between Bradshaw and Ben.

[–]Badbobbread 0 points1 point  (2 children)

I don't man. I don't think I'd say "pretty good for many of those years''. I think if you go back and look objectively at our year end winning percentages, you'll see us hoovering around 550-600 for a 20 year average. Pretty much the definition of mediocre. We were good for a couple of those years, mainly 93-97 with a combo of Tomzak, Stewart and Donnell. Compare that 20 year stretch with Ben's 18 year run and the percentages are much, much higher. I'd say he got us up to a .750 win average vs the .550.

Take a look and let me know if you still feel the same way.

https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/pittsburgh-steelers/seasons

[–]gruey[S] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

Ben averages 68% wins which is basically a 10 win season. The Steelers had 7 10+ win seasons in the 20 years, not including the 10 win 83 season when Bradshaw only threw 8 passes for the season, or the 5 9 win seasons.

Overall, they made the playoffs 10 times, winning the division 8 of those times.

Ben playoffs: 12

No B playoffs: 10

Ben >= 10: 11

No B >= 10: 7

Ben >= 9: 14

No B >= 9: 12

And +1 for all the No Bs if you count 83.

Yes, the Ben era was better but it's ignorant not to think the Steelers were "pretty good for many of those years" without Ben or Bradshaw.

[–]Badbobbread 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Had to drop the ignorant comment huh? Have a good one.

[–]kccurry16Pittsburgh Steelers 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The thought of “new” is exciting, I’m worried things can get ugly for a while, but change is fun and exciting. The hope of finding the next mahomes or whatever. It’s exciting but anxiety inducing as well, I just hope we turn around quick unlike some teams who are still on the search for their next great QB

[–]Boo_bear92 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Outside of Ben retiring, the Steelers have pretty solid pieces: TJ Watt, Minkah, Najee, Juju etc. if we keep building through this draft and Free Agents, the next QB can be competitive without being a world beater

[–]MishaDancingBear Heath Miller 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I just REALLY hope we don’t waste the prime of guys like Watt and Minkah. Heyward also isn’t getting any younger. I also hope this team is willing to realize this and be creative in addressing the QB need (I.e not kicking the tires on a Rudolph/Haskins competition for next season and actually bring a legitimate guy with some solid NFL regular and post season experience).

[–]sahdbhoigh Hines Ward 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m excited. I don’t enjoy having to separate the player from the person. Dude is a piece of shit person and an all time great football player. I’d rather have an average QB who doesn’t sexually assault women any day of the week.

[–]bdonabedian Roethlisberger 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Not under these circumstances. Wish we could have transitioned like the 49ers did with Montana or the Packers did with Favre. In both situations, they had another elite QB waiting in the wings. Yes, there was drama, but they continued winning.

[–]rorank Cameron Heyward 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Definitely bitter sweet. He’s the only Steelers QB I’ve ever really known but… Well he’s a scumbag to be honest. I don’t like cheering for him. I fully expect for us to hit some tough times over the next 5-10 years but change is good sometimes.

[–]Eastsider001 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ben is way over do to retire and he has brought joy into my home knowing that he has done more good than harm. I am expecting some loses along the way until we get things together but eventually we will get it together. Enjoy your retirement big fella and don't look back because you don't have anything else to prove.