Written by Dylan Hunter Carter
On March 15th, it was announced that 2 Time Super Bowl Champion and Steelers franchise quarterback Big Ben Roethlisberger signed a contract extension for 5 years worth $99 million. As the face of the Steelers since he was drafted in 2004, Big Ben has brought a level of elite play and exceptional ability that fits perfectly with the tough and gritty essence of the Steelers. Following a difficult loss to their long time rivals, the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Wild Card game, Big Ben is ready to return to his Steelers with a vengeance.
The Steelers haven’t played their best football in years, but this year was an exceptional difference as opposed to the 2013-2014 season where the team ended with an 8–8 record without making playoffs. This season Big Ben was exceptional, passing for a stellar 4,952 yards; tied for most in the league with Saints quarterback Drew Brees. Standing at 6' 5" and 241 lbs, Big Ben has been using his exceptional size and distinct passing skill to his advantage for his entire career.
Big Ben was not the only Steeler to have an exceptional season. Up and coming Running Back Le’Veon Bell had a stellar season, rushing for 1,361 yards with 8 Touchdowns. Bell is a core piece in the Steelers’ offense. Bell took an unfortunate blow to the knee prior to the Steelers’ AFC Wild Card game, greatly harming the running game of the Steelers. Bell took the league by storm, surprising all spectators to his exceptional season. Marshawn Lynch better look out because sky’s the limit for Bell; he has the capability to become the best running back in the league.
Another Steeler who had an exceptional season is Pro Bowler and elite Wide Receiver Antonio Brown, who totalled 1,698 receiving yards on the season. Brown is 26 years old and is only getting better. He’s been the go to guy for Big Ben and the Steelers offense for years and he continues to dominate the competition.
The re-signing of Roethlisberger is an important factor when thinking about the morale of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Roethlisberger has been the definite leader of the Steelers since he was drafted, so to know that he’ll be returning brings peace to fans and players alike. With their signature gritty play style, the Steelers have potential to bring home another Super Bowl trophy next season. The primary factor hindering that Superbowl Potential is health. We can see the impact that health has had on the Steelers through the injury of Le’Veon Bell. They suffered through that wild card loss largely due to the lack of running game which Bell provides. If the Steelers can stay healthy then they have potential to pull through the regular season and end back up in the Superbowl.
Do you think the Steelers have the potential to make an impact next season?
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