When thinking of the greatest duos in Pittsburgh Steelers history, several legendary pairs stand out: Lynn Swann and John Stallworth, Jack Lambert and Jack Ham, Franco Harris and Rocky Bleier, all of which vital parts to four Super Bowl titles in the 1970s. In the 2010s, another beloved duo emerged: Ben Roethlisberger and Maurkice Pouncey. Together, they were the heart and soul of the Steelers’ offense for more than a decade. Recently, one half of that iconic partnership reflected on the special bond the two shared throughout their times in Pittsburgh.
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Former Steelers' center Maurkice Pouncey and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger embrace following a touchdown drive.
Pouncey recently made a guest appearance on an episode of Not Just Football With Cam Heyward, where he opened up about the unique friendship he shared with Roethlisberger during their times in Pittsburgh. The conversation provided insight into how the relationship between a young rookie and a seasoned veteran can evolve into something deeper than just football.
"I think he took me under his wing," Pouncey said. "He didn't have to do that for me."
For a young player entering the NFL, especially one drafted into a team with championship aspirations, having a quarterback like Roethlisberger guiding you can make a world of difference.
The Steelers selected Pouncey in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft out of Florida, immediately entrusting him with the role of franchise center. Over the next decade, Pouncey would go on to start 134 games, becoming the anchor of some of the most formidable offensive lines in recent memory for the Steelers. His presence at the center of the line helped shape the identity of the team’s offense during his tenure.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and center Maurkice Pouncey share an emotional moment together on the bench as they play their last game together.
When Pouncey arrived in Pittsburgh, Roethlisberger was already a seventh-year veteran with two Super Bowl championships under his belt. Beyond being a talented quarterback, the quarterback assumed the role of mentor for Pouncey, helping him navigate both the challenges of professional football and the pressures that come with life off the field.
Their connection quickly grew into a close friendship, with Pouncey crediting Roethlisberger for showing him the ropes, both personally and professionally.
"We just probably mended together a lot closer because he kinda had some steps in his life, and he kinda seen me going down that same kind of path," Pouncey reflected. "So I think that part of it, we made such a brotherhood. I just love him to death, we still talk all the time."
Roethlisberger and Pouncey's relationship went beyond the football field, as they were close friends off the field and still are to this day. Over the years, they shared countless moments, both of triumph and tribulation, and that strengthened their bond. From late-night film sessions to team meetings and charitable events, they relied on each other’s insight and support.
Pouncey has spoken about how Roethlisberger's guidance helped him mature not just as a player, but as a person, shaping his approach to leadership and teamwork. Their mutual respect and camaraderie became a cornerstone of the Steelers’ locker room culture, inspiring teammates and setting an example for how mentorship can elevate both individuals and the team as a whole.
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Pittsburgh Steelers dynamic duo - Ben Roethlisberger and Maurkice Pouncey.
Steelers' Newest Hall Of Honor Class Features Both Roethlisberger and Pouncey
Roethlisberger, Pouncey, and Joey Porter Sr. will be the newest members inducted into the prestigious Steelers Hall of Honor, a recognition reserved for those who have made a lasting impact on the franchise and its history. It is especially fitting that Roethlisberger and Pouncey are being inducted together, as their decade-long partnership from 2010 to 2020 was one of the defining connections of modern Steelers football.
The three honorees will be officially recognized at the Hall of Honor Dinner Ceremony at Acrisure Stadium on Sunday, December 14th. Fans will also get a chance to celebrate their achievements in person, as Roethlisberger, Pouncey, and Porter will be recognized during halftime of the Steelers’ Monday Night Football game against the Miami Dolphins on December 15th.
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