Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger chose his offensive lieutenants

Big Ben is turning into Elder Statesmen Ben.

And he's taking that responsibility seriously.

Roethlisberger told reporters, as quoted by the Tribune-Review's Alan Robinson, he is taking more of a leadership role this season, but he also asked two other players on the offensive side to be more vocal and bring up more issues.

"I pulled a couple of the offensive guys aside this offseason and said, 'Hey, listen I would like to take more of a leadership role of the whole team, and I'd like you guys to be more of the offensive leaders," Roethlisberger said, referring to tight end Heath Miller and center Maurkice Pouncey. "I'll still do my part, but I'd like you guys to speak up in meetings and to bring things up. I think those are the perfect guys for it."

Pouncey and Miller, both Pro Bowl selections in 2012, are clearly two of the team's best players, and have a good range of influence among the team. Pouncey is younger, more outspoken and loquacious, while the older Miller is soft-spoken and vastly experienced.

Roethlisberger himself, as quarterback, assumes a natural position of leadership among the offense. But

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