Steelers LB: “This is my first time being around a quarterback” like Big Ben

Big Ben Cowboys
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Last year, the Pittsburgh Steelers played almost their entire season without Ben Roethlisberger. They finished 8-8.

This year, with Big Ben back and fully healthy, they are a perfect 10-0, the only unbeaten team in the NFL.

The difference he makes to this team cannot be overstated.

“He’s a professional. He’s a professional, man,” Steelers linebacker Avery Williamson told JR SportBrief. “He’s been there for years. The biggest thing is he knows how to run the offense. Ben has [been in the league] for 17 [seasons] now. He knows the ins and outs of all of it, and he’s just a professional. He gets everybody lined up. Everybody is listening to him. He’s the general out there, man.”

Williamson, 28, was a fifth-round draft pick in 2014. He played for the Titans (2014-17) and Jets (2018-20) before getting traded to Pittsburgh in November. 

While he is still just a couple of weeks into his Steelers tenure, Williamson has thoroughly enjoyed playing with Roethlisberger.

“It’s really awesome being around a quarterback like that,” he said. “I haven’t had the opportunity. This is my first time being around a quarterback like him. But it’s definitely great just to see the leadership and his skillset when he’s out on the field.”

Roethlisberger has completed 67.1 percent of his passes for 2,534 yards, 24 touchdowns and five interceptions this season.

The Steelers host the Ravens (6-4) on Thanksgiving. Kickoff is at 8:20 p.m. ET.