Truth & Rumors > NFL

Big Ben: I didn't influence draft

Views
475
Comments
0

Rashard Mendenhall and Limas Sweed were drafted specifically to give Ben Roethlisberger even more options in the offense. But, probably not wanting to offend or disrespect any of his existing teammates, Roethlisberger wasn't exactly doing backflips or rubbing his hands in anticipation of training camp yesterday when asked his reaction to the two talented rookies who have been added to the roster. "It wasn't pressing for us because we already have [players at those positions]," Roethlisberger said. "It's to add depth, to add versatility."

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Ben Roethlisberger, Chris McGrath/Getty Images Ben Roethlisberger, Chris McGrath/Getty Images
May 1, 2008  07:41 AM ET

ben, you were complaining that u didnt have a tall wr, and now that u got one, u dun want to take sponsitility?

May 1, 2008  07:43 AM ET

Non story.

May 1, 2008  07:45 AM ET

It wasn't totally for him. And what QB hasn't tried to put their 2 cents in? Especially after getting sacked as much as he did. But It does add depth. What a one two punch this will be, and a tall playmaker to throw to. Steelers are in better shape than last year, and injuries slowed us down. Much better team on paper. As for offense we are in good shape. Go Steelers! One for the other pinky!

May 1, 2008  07:47 AM ET

Nice flip-flop Ben. He's posturing for a life in politics after football. Hey Packers4, I love cake too. Chocolate........

May 1, 2008  08:06 AM ET

"It wasn't pressing for us because we already have [players at those positions],"

Funny how you say that now after you find out your existing "players at those positions" were insulted by your asking for a tall WR.

May 1, 2008  08:23 AM ET

Had they not drafted some big receivers then today we'd be reading about him complaining that the team didn't listen to him.

May 1, 2008  08:35 AM ET

What good are options when the O-line lets him get sacked 5-6 times a game?

May 1, 2008  08:36 AM ET

Make up my their minds Ben. You want the receivers or you dont

May 1, 2008  08:38 AM ET

I'm disappointed - isn't it natural for the QB to pull draft strings rather than mgmt?

May 1, 2008  08:48 AM ET

The Steelers have always drafted for long-term value. This draft is no different, especially given the panic for OT's in the first round. By the time the Steelers were on the clock, Mendenhall was far and away the best player left. Even if they could have taken a guy like Jeff Otah a few picks earlier it would have been a mistake. Did any of you see his game tape? That guy is going to get torched by every speed rusher in the league! Mendenhall is the right pick. Willie is coming off of a major injury and he has legitimate potential. Any weakness in the line this year should be blamed on the Steelers mistakes during free agency.

May 1, 2008  08:59 AM ET

if ben had, he would have asked for some O-Line. steelers should have drafted more O-Line. will be the weakest thing about the team this season. they drafted solid but they didnt draft to fix whats wrong with their offense.

May 1, 2008  09:04 AM ET

Big Ben is responsible for some of those sacks, he holds onto the ball too long. The Steelers invested a ton of money in two guys with a history of concussions (Ben/Troy). This maybe a bigger problem.

While I like their picks, I will take a 9-7 record this season with that schedule.

May 1, 2008  09:06 AM ET

Who cares if he take sponsatility or not? He is their franchise player and they wanted to make sure they surround him with the proper weapons that will make him and the team better.

May 1, 2008  09:07 AM ET

I thought the Steelers had a good draft. Of course, what do I know?

May 1, 2008  09:07 AM ET

I think the Steelers Oline will be fine as long as RT Max Starks can figure out how to play again.

Mendenhall was the best pick. Limas Sweed will make the offense more potent and gives Big Ben a guy that he can just throw a jump ball and not have to worry. Much like Big Ben had in College with WR Nance at Miami Ohio.

The Best pick I thought the Steelers had was UCLA's DE/3-4 OLB Bruce Davis. This guy was unstoppable at UCLA as a DE and is athletic as all get out. He will be a perfect fit as a 3-4 OLB. He will take over in a couple of seasons for OLB James Harrison.

May 1, 2008  09:08 AM ET

Who cares if he take sponsatility or not?

drtrujillo

I disagree, sponsatility is important.

May 1, 2008  09:08 AM ET

Big Ben is responsible for some of those sacks. He hold the ball too long some times, which led to him being sacked. I really like the Steelers picks this season but I'll take a 9-7 season now with that schedule.

I also think the Steelers invested too much money in Ben & Troy with their concussion history.

May 1, 2008  09:28 AM ET

sorry for the double postings.....

May 1, 2008  09:54 AM ET

It's called being diplomatic

 
May 1, 2008  09:59 AM ET

Big Ben definitely influenced this draft heavily...

Comment

Remember to keep your posts clean. Profanity will get filtered, and offensive comments will be removed.


The Si.com Cover Hub Go to the Cover Hub

Stub Hub

The 2009 schedule has been released. Search for tickets!

Truth & Rumors

MOST POPULAR

  1. 1
    Agent: 'Extraordinary' interest in Bay
    Views
    5196
    Comments
    1888
  2. 2
    Vikings to consider L.A. move?
    Views
    65525
    Comments
    1877
  3. 3
    Bills owner wanted Gruden
    Views
    9945
    Comments
    261
  4. 4
    Mayo rebukes Bruschi's Belichick knock
    Views
    44588
    Comments
    257
  5. 5
    Can Iverson lure LeBron to Knicks?
    Views
    9984
    Comments
    176

Message Boards

  1. NCAAF > General NCAAF

    Are college football coaches…
    Views
    293
    Replies
    49
  2. NFL > Pittsburgh Steelers

    Big Ben accepts Blame for loss…
    Views
    254
    Replies
    42
  3. NCAAF > General NCAAF

    CFB Game Day 11/21/2009
    Views
    97
    Replies
    59

Blogs

SI.com

Swimsuit

SI Photos