For many weeks now, the national sports media has done it best to drag Ben Roethlisberger‘s name through the mud, choosing the side of an unhinged Antonio Brown and placing the blame for Brown’s recent outbursts squarely on the shoulders of team’s franchise quarterback.
Yesterday, Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert reasserted his commitment to the franchise’s future Hall of Famer, stating that “Ben is the elder statesman. If the players were smart they’d listen to him. He’s been there.”
Taking into consideration the source of this statement and the frequency with which he makes public comments, this is definitely a big endorsement!
It has made it clear that Big Ben is still the most valued and respected player in the eyes of the front office. Certainly, they haven’t forgotten the two Super Bowl Championships and three AFC Championships he has led them to.
Unfortunately, the media has portrayed Brown as some sort of victim to Roethlisberger’s rule.
Apparently, the man with his eyes and ears closest to the situation has no problem with how Roethlisberger chooses to lead the team.
It’s amazing how far the national media has been willing to take this story. Many say the Steelers’ biggest problem is their quarterback, and that winning won’t occur until they rid themselves of him.
It’s refreshing to know that the people closest to the situation can see the value in a franchise quarterback and who is (and isn’t) really worth the trouble. This is a clear indication of Ben’s character and his ability to lead.
So, next time you hear a media figure dragging Roethlisberger’s name through the mud, ask yourself why they’re only sharing one side of the story. Remember who gave Ben approval. Remember what player stayed and what player cried his way out of town. Remember which player turned his back on the organization that gave him every opportunity. Remember which player turned his back on the city that treated him like a king.
Was that player Ben Roethlisberger?
Seriously; does that look like a bad leader?
