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Steelers name Ben Roethlisberger, Ryan Clark, Brett Keisel and Maurkice Pouncey captains

The Steelers have selected their 2013 team captains, as Tweeted by practice squad cornerback Devin Smith.

By Neal Coolong
USA TODAY Sports

Steelers practice squad cornerback Devin Smith gave congratulations to quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, center Maurkice Pouncey, safety Ryan Clark and defensive end Brett Keisel for being named captains of the 2013 Steelers.

Roethlisberger is a natural choice, and has been captain for several years. Likewise, Keisel has served in the role previously, and, as the eldest member of the Steelers team, he's already considered a leader in the locker room. Clark, the quarterback of the secondary, has always provided a sense of leadership over the group that's primarily responsible for leading the NFL in passing yards against the last two seasons.

Pouncey, at 24 years of age and with a not-so-inconspicuous offseason, may raise an eyebrow or two. His flippant attitude in wearing a hat proclaiming the support of college teammate and accused murderer Aaron Hernandez brought out questions regarding his maturity.

However, a center being given that distinction is one thing; regardless, the position itself holds a certain level of responsibility not required of most other positions on the field. Pouncey needs to be a leader, whether or not his teammates and coaches see him as one of the faces of the team.

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