In a recent appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers took some time to discuss various topics, including the potential for former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to go into coaching.
Rodgers, who is currently recovering from a torn Achilles he suffered in Week 1, shared his thoughts on the matter, shedding light on the challenges former players face when transitioning into coaching roles.
“I think very few guys could do it. That’s why you don’t see a lot of great former players coaching,” Rodgers remarked.
“I think I have some ideas about that. But I think it tests the patience coaching people who aren’t able to do or process things as quickly as you were able to when you were playing.”
He emphasized the difficulty of coaching players who may not possess the same level of mental acumen and quick decision-making that former star athletes like himself and Roethlisberger enjoyed during their playing careers.
“Now when it comes to calling plays, I would probably echo the same sentiment that Ben said,” Rodgers continued. “I think that there’s a few guys who could really do it. Ben was like me, probably some of the last quarterbacks in the league who could just call their own plays.”
Rodgers’ comments reflect a widespread belief that the ability to call plays and make quick, on-field decisions is a rare and valuable skill in the NFL. Both he and Roethlisberger have been known for their mastery of this aspect of the game during their illustrious careers.
Rodgers also expressed confidence in Roethlisberger’s potential to succeed as a coach.
While it remains to be seen whether Roethlisberger will pursue a coaching career, a lot of Steelers fans would love to have him take over for their offensive coordinator, Matt Canada.
Canada has been public enemy #1 in Pittsburgh … Wouldn’t it be something to have Big Ben take over?
Do you think he has any interest in going into coaching?