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Steelers Legend Ben Roethlisberger Says Newcomer ‘Could Be the Future’ After Stellar Preseason Showing

The buzz in Pittsburgh was electric after the Steelers’ preseason opener. Skylar Thompson, stepping in under the bright lights, delivered a performance that had fans talking — 233 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions, according to ESPN.com.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)

Watching from the sidelines, Steelers legend Ben Roethlisberger — the man who led the franchise to two Super Bowl titles — didn’t hold back his praise:

“He could be the future of this franchise.”

It wasn’t scripted. It wasn’t for the cameras. But when a legend speaks, the locker room listens.

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The remark rippled through the team like a spark in dry grass. Veterans nodded, rookies whispered, and a few players patted Thompson on the back. The young QB, grinning ear to ear, was met with quiet applause and an unmistakable sense of respect.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)

Thompson, currently listed as the third quarterback on the depth chart behind Aaron Rodgers and Mason Rudolph — with Howard sidelined by injury — has already shown flashes of composure and confidence that belie his position.

If Rodgers eventually hangs up his cleats or shifts to a mentor role, Roethlisberger’s words may prove prophetic: Skylar Thompson could indeed be the Steelers’ next franchise cornerstone.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson (17) during a preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Jacksonville Jaguars, on Saturday August 9, 2025 in Jacksonville, FL. (Karl Roser / Pittsburgh Steelers)

Is Skylar Thompson truly the Steelers’ quarterback of the future? Ben Roethlisberger thinks so — and now, all eyes are watching.

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 A.J. Brown Publicly Hints at Steelers Move After Eagles’ First Loss of the Season
Philadelphia, PA – October 5, 2025 The Philadelphia Eagles’ first loss of the season may have exposed more than just flaws in their offense — it might have revealed a brewing rift inside the locker room. After falling 17–21 to the Denver Broncos in Week 5, frustrations spilled into the open when star wide receiver — visibly emotional on the sideline — took to social media hours after the game, posting: “Sometimes, loyalty isn’t enough. Sometimes, you just want to feel wanted.” That player, A.J. Brown, has now become the center of a developing storm in Philadelphia. Multiple league insiders confirmed that Brown privately expressed interest in a trade to the Pittsburgh Steelers — a move he reportedly sees as a “fresh start” alongside former college teammate DK Metcalf, under a more pass-oriented system. Brown’s dissatisfaction has been mounting since the start of the season. Despite the Eagles’ 4-1 record, his usage has dropped sharply, with just 16 receptions through five games. The team’s heavy reliance on the run game has left him increasingly frustrated with his role in Nick Sirianni’s offense. “I respect what we’re building here, but I’m a competitor,” Brown told reporters briefly in the locker room after the loss. “When you feel like you’re not being used to your full potential, it eats at you.” The Steelers, meanwhile, are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. After trading George Pickens to the Cowboys, Pittsburgh has been searching for a dynamic wide receiver to pair with DK Metcalf and give Aaron Rodgers another weapon. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni declined to comment on Brown’s remarks but emphasized unity, saying, “We win together, we lose together. Emotions run high, but our focus is still on the next game.” Still, tensions in Philadelphia are undeniable. What began as a disappointing Sunday loss could now ignite one of the season’s biggest trade sagas — one that could shake both the Eagles and Steelers before the midseason deadline.