Steve Smith Sr. on Ben Roethlisberger: “Big Ben is gonna shock some people”

It was a breath of fresh air to finally see a major sports network, specifically NFL Network, say some kind words about Ben Roethlisberger and the 2020 Pittsburgh Steelers.

Former Carolina Panthers and Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith Jr. was on NFL Network on April 17th, and fielded some questions about how Roethlisberger and the Steelers’ offense would fare this upcoming season. He was also asked if whether or not he believed that the Steelers should draft another signal-caller this year.

“I’m not really sure if they should bring in another quarterback,” said Smith, citing the team’s lack of a first-round draft pick “eliminates the quarterback controversy”.

“[The Steelers] are really in a position to win now,” he added.

Smith made some excellent points, as the Steelers lack of a first round pick means that any future franchise quarterbacks will be off the board by the time Pittsburgh has a chance to pick. Also, drafting a quarterback in 2020 would be a wasted selection, as the team is focused on winning right now with Ben Roethlisberger at the helm.

“Big Ben is gonna shock some people,” said Smith, “and come out when the season starts and kind of show that he missed football.”

The former receiver went on to add that Roethlisberger “is ready”, and the coronavirus was giving the quarterback time to “hone in [his] skills”.

Smith claimed that protecting Big Ben should be the team's priority this offseason, stating that a quality offensive line is crucial to a high-powered offense. He also expressed some confidence in Pittsburgh's defense and receiving corps, such as James Washington and new tight end Eric Ebron.

He finished the interview by answering a question on whether or not Pittsburgh would be a playoff team in 2020.

“If Big Ben is at the helm, absolutely.”