Pittsburgh Steelers star quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has stirred up controversy with his comments about the team's selection of quarterback Mason Rudolph. He voiced that it isn't his job to help Rudolph after concurring with the former Oklahoma State quarterback's comments about not needing the two-time Super Bowl's guidance at the next level.
A number of analysts and players have offered their opinion on Big Ben's words in the days that have followed. Former NFL quarterback and current ESPN NFL analyst Matt Hasselbeck has voiced his disappointment in the manner that Roethlisberger handled the situation out of the gate.
Article Continues Below“It's disappointing and quite honestly it shows a lack of leadership on Ben Roethlisberger's part. When I read his comments and I hear them, it's the epitome of immaturity and selfishness quite honestly. Like why say this on the radio. This has been my question on Ben Roethlisberger for years now. Understand who you are and the power of your words in Pittsburgh. You're the most successful quarterback in Pittsburgh Steelers history. There is going to be a statue of you in Pittsburgh some day. Understand your radio station show is not the proper medium to express these feelings that you may have. Close the door and talk to the GM and talk to the head coach. Just recently he was saying that Antonio Brown was causing a distraction that none of us need. That is exactly what you are doing.”
Hasselbeck's opinion is likely one shared by many former players given that it is often times the guidance of veterans that help the rookies make the transition to the next level. Regardless of the situation, this is crucial to the development and adjustment that these incoming players need to make with the help of their teammates.
Roethlisberger's situation is no different from that, as he has the knowledge and experience of what it takes to succeed in the NFL. For example, he previously voiced his appreciation for the help that Tommy Maddox, who was the previous starter with the Steelers, once gave him early in his career that helped him get to the point where he is now.
Pittsburgh had to find the eventual replacement for Roethlisberger, considering he has toyed with the idea of retirement the last two years while dealing with injuries. All that said, the Pro Bowler has plenty of time to correctly handle the situation for the betterment of himself and the franchise.