In the world of NFL debates, few subjects elicit as much passion as the comparison of quarterbacks, and former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has recently stirred the pot. On his “Footbahlin” podcast, the two-time Super Bowl champion made waves by suggesting that he would choose a prime Aaron Rodgers over current Chiefs sensation Patrick Mahomes. “Well, I would take Aaron in his prime over Patrick now,” Roethlisberger said, asserting that Rodgers, during his peak, was among the elite in the history of the game. He also noted that Mahomes is just beginning to emerge from his own prime, hinting at the evolution yet to come in the young star’s career.
This bold declaration didn’t go unnoticed, especially by Mahomes’ trainer, Bobby Stroupe, who promptly took to social media to throw a clever jab at Roethlisberger. Stroupe’s post on X was a pointed reminder: “Not everybody quits working out at 30 years old, Ben.” It’s a fitting retort, considering Roethlisberger’s weight fluctuations throughout his career, particularly during the later years when the once-mobile quarterback adapted to a different style of play.
However, Roethlisberger’s impressive passing stats are a testament to his ability to thrive despite the relentless hits he absorbed while standing firm in the pocket. His tenure in the league has been marked by toughness, and it’s clear that he has a deep respect for the grind of being a quarterback.
Stroupe wasn’t just taking aim at Big Ben, though. He expanded his defense of Mahomes by addressing many of the quarterback’s critics on social media. With an assertive stance, he challenged those who compare Mahomes to past greats. “Show me pictures of Aaron Rodgers with his shirt off in his prime. And Elway and Peyton,” he argued. Stroupe even highlighted the differing physical styles and game approaches between these legends and Mahomes, who is known for both taking hits and delivering them with stability and assertiveness.
In his defense, Stroupe underscored Mahomes’ resilience by asking for comparisons of injury records among quarterbacks, implying that Mahomes has managed to stay on the field more consistently than some of those in the conversation. His comments serve as a reminder of the new era of quarterbacks who navigate the game with a blend of agility and force.
This back-and-forth underscores a fascinating narrative in the NFL: the ongoing debate over who reigns supreme in the quarterback hierarchy. With each new generation of talent, the parameters of greatness seem to shift, leaving fans and analysts alike with a mystery that keeps the discussions alive. Whether you side with Roethlisberger’s sentiments or find yourself backing Mahomes—and Stroupe’s spirited defense—it’s clear that these discussions only amplify the passion for the game and its storied history.
