When Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers’ all‑time passing leader, stepped onto the field for his Hall of Honor induction, he also delivered a candid message about the team’s future.
The Hall of Honor Moment
On Monday night, the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrated the induction of former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger into the franchise’s Hall of Honor. The ceremony also honored former center Maurkice Pouncey and linebacker Joey Porter Sr. Roethlisberger, who retired after the 2021 season, was present to receive the award in front of a packed stadium.
During the event, Roethlisberger took a moment to speak about the current coaching situation. He said, “Just because I said that, you know, there’s time for like maybe some new things that’s just saying that I think, you know, coach Tomlin, if he wants to move on, he has every right to want to move,” adding, “It’s not (that) they should. It’s up to him.” The former quarterback emphasized that the decision to step down would be Tomlin’s own.
Mike Tomlin’s Tenure and Legacy
Mike Tomlin is in his 19th season as the Steelers’ head coach, making him the NFL’s longest‑tenured coach. His résumé includes two appearances in the Super Bowl, one of which resulted in a victory over the Arizona Cardinals when Roethlisberger was quarterback after the 2008 season. The Steelers have been playoff regulars throughout Tomlin’s tenure, but the team has not won a postseason game since the divisional round in 2016. That stretch is the franchise’s longest stretch without a playoff victory since Franco Harris’ Immaculate Reception more than five decades ago.
Roethlisberger’s comments were framed by his own history with Tomlin. The former quarterback has long been a vocal supporter of the coach, praising his leadership and the stability he brings to the organization.
Roethlisberger’s Perspective
Roethlisberger, the franchise leader in every major passing category and a two‑time Super Bowl champion, has been careful to separate criticism of plays from criticism of players on his podcast. He stated that he has no issue if Tomlin stays on indefinitely, saying, “We should honor him when that time comes, whenever that is,” and added, “Maybe he wants to coach for another 10 years. That’s fine, too.”
The former quarterback also clarified that he has no plans to return to the field in his mid‑40s. “If I had a little work, I could (do it),” Roethlisberger said. “Listen, my right arm works just fine, I promise you that. It’s the rest of my body I worry about.” He noted that he will be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame for the first time next year.
Future of the Steelers
Roethlisberger’s remarks came after a suggestion he made on his podcast two weeks earlier, following Pittsburgh’s home loss to Buffalo. He had implied that the Steelers might need to “find that next guy” in the offseason. The former quarterback’s latest comments clarify that he is not pushing for a coaching change; instead, he is acknowledging Tomlin’s right to decide when he is ready to step down.
The conversation reflects the broader debate among Steelers fans and analysts about the team’s direction. While the franchise has enjoyed consistent playoff appearances, the lack of a postseason win since 2016 has fueled calls for change. Tomlin’s long tenure and record of success, however, have earned him the respect of many, including Roethlisberger.
Key Takeaways
- Ben Roethlisberger publicly supports Mike Tomlin’s right to leave when he chooses, not to force a change.
- Tomlin is the NFL’s longest‑tenured coach, with 19 seasons and two Super Bowl appearances, including a win over Arizona.
- The Steelers have missed postseason victories since 2016, the longest drought since Franco Harris’ Immaculate Reception.
- Roethlisberger, a franchise passing record holder, will be eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame next year and has no plans to return to the field.
In the end, Roethlisberger’s message is one of respect and patience. He acknowledges Tomlin’s achievements and leaves the decision to step down in the coach’s own hands, while also hinting that the Steelers could continue to thrive under his leadership for many more years.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
