The Pittsburgh Steelers' offense thrived with Ben Roethlisberger and Heath Miller at its core. Roethlisberger was drafted in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. Just a year later in 2005, the Steelers selected their future star tight end, Miller (also in the first round).
Matt Freed / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Former Steelers quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger and former tight end, Heath Miller celebrate on the field together.
Miller played 11 seasons with Roethlisberger as his quarterback, amassing 592 receptions, 6,569 receiving yards, and 45 touchdowns. During his career, Miller earned two Pro Bowl invitations and won two Super Bowls with the Steelers. Roethlisberger, who enjoyed a legendary career, often credited much of his success to Miller's efforts.
The bond between Roethlisberger and Miller was special, characterized by mutual respect and a deep connection on the field. Miller, beloved by fans, was celebrated with the iconic "HEATH" chant whenever he made a catch. Both players were truly fan favorites. Recently, Miller joined the Green Light podcast to share insights into his unique relationship with Roethlisberger.
“We were kind of, Ben was drafted the year before me and I was after him. We were kind of the young guys on that offensive team. There were a lot of old veteran guys, so that ultimately brought us together. We were roommates in training camp for a few years.”
Miller believes that his friendship with Roethlisberger was destined to happen, given how closely their careers began. This proximity in their draft years laid the foundation for a bond that only grew stronger over time.
“We spent a lot of time together," Miller said. "We had a lot in common and our families just in general had a lot in common. Based on those things, we were kind of close from the beginning. Obviously, when you play for a guy for 11 years and he is your quarterback the entire time, that bond just grows and gets better throughout time.”
Not every first-round wide receiver or tight end is as fortunate as Miller was. When he joined the Steelers in 2005, he teamed up with a potential Hall of Fame quarterback in Roethlisberger.
Steelers.com
Steelers' Heath Miller kisses the Lombardi Trophy after Super Bowl XLIII.
Miller considers himself very lucky to have played with Roethlisberger for 11 seasons. He will never take that for granted.
“I feel very fortunate. Not a lot of guys, a receiver or a tight end, if you could go to a team and say you will play for a Hall of Fame quarterback for 11 years, you are like yes, sign me up 100 times out of 100. I don’t lose sight of how lucky I was to have been part of his career.”
While the quarterback and tight end bond is common in the NFL, Miller and Roethlisberger were a dynamic duo, always on the same page. Roethlisberger knew he could count on Miller to be open when it was time to make a play.
Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger Was Bummed Out When Heath Miller Hung Up His Cleats
After Miller retired, Roethlisberger continued to play for several more seasons, but his first practice without Miller was tough. To honor him, Roethlisberger showed up wearing Miller's jersey.
In a 2016 article by ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Roethlisberger detailed why he wore the jersey and how much Miller meant to him and Pittsburgh.
“I wanted to wear it today hoping maybe he would appear from somewhere and come out and play a little bit,” Roethlisberger said. “Just an honor of a guy who deserves to be honored.”
Steelers fans will always cherish the era when Roethlisberger and Miller played together, leading the team to two Super Bowl victories and numerous wins, along with significant offensive production. This is something the current Steelers offense has struggled to replicate. However, in 2024, the Steelers have implemented a new system, and tight end Pat Freiermuth is expected to have a breakout season.
Associated Press
Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth celebrates Kenny Pickett's second touchdown pass in a 23-18 victory.
Fans are excited about the new offensive system under Arthur Smith, which aims to involve the tight ends more. When Freiermuth played with Roethlisberger, he scored seven touchdowns. In the two seasons without Roethlisberger, he has only four total. With a new quarterback and system, Freiermuth is poised for a big year. In 2024, he will hope to replicate his success of his rookie season and rack up more yards.
#SteelerNation
