By Jared Villani / @JVillain10
SteelerNation.com
Although Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger missed most of last season after suffering a season-ending elbow injury in just the second week of the 2019 season, it's apparent many have forgotten the magical season he had the season prior. If Roethlisberger gets even relatively close to his 2018 form, the Steelers could easily find their way back to the postseason with his leadership under center, combined with extremely talented offensive weapons and perhaps the most stout defense in the league.
In 2018, Roethlisberger posted career highs in pass completions (452), attempts (675), yards (5,129) and touchdowns (34), while simultaneously leading the league in each of these categories. There's no denying Roethlisberger sustained a very serious injury last season, but there's no reason to believe he isn't coming back near full health as he continues to show progression.
Mike Tomlin on progress of Ben Roethlisberger: "He's comfortable and pleased where he is. Some people who had the opportunity to work with him are impressed and pleased where he is. The medical experts are comfortable where he is and his readiness for 2020."
— Gerry Dulac (@gerrydulac) June 23, 2020
While the Steelers offensive weapons were undoubtedly better just a couple seasons ago, it will be interesting to see how Roethlisberger can find success with a potentially electric group of pass catchers and running backs. Although Roethlisberger has played alongside James Washington and briefly with Diontae Johnson, the sample size of opportunities is not big enough to get a clear idea just how well the chemistry can be.
Nobody was more excited to get Roethlisberger back on the field than JuJu Smith-Schuster after catching 169 receptions for 2,343 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first two seasons with Roethlisberger under center. Both members of the Steelers dynamic duo are poised for a big bounce back campaign, but it's Roethlisberger who holds the ticket to Pittsburgh's postseason return.
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