In the latest episode of his “Footbahlin” podcast, former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger stirred the pot with a bold take regarding the ever-evolving quarterback landscape, specifically pinning current Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes against all-time great Aaron Rodgers. Roethlisberger, a two-time Super Bowl champion, expressed his belief that he would opt for a prime Aaron Rodgers over Mahomes at this stage in his career.
“I would take Aaron in his prime over Patrick now,” Roethlisberger said candidly. He praised Rodgers as one of the best to ever play the position, much like how he views Mahomes as he approaches his peak. “Patrick Mahomes is just entering out of his prime, I think,” Roethlisberger added, making it clear he sees a distinction between the two quarterbacks at this point.
The comments didn’t go unnoticed. Bobby Stroupe, Mahomes’ trainer, promptly responded, taking to social media to counter Roethlisberger’s assertion with a playful jab: “Not everybody quits working out at 30 years old, Ben.” This comment was a subtle nudge towards Roethlisberger’s physical shape during his later years in the league, especially when compared to his earlier days as a more mobile quarterback standing tall at 6-foot-5 and nearly 240 pounds.
Despite the physical toll Roethlisberger absorbed throughout his 18-year career, which often left him nicked and bruised, he still managed to post impressive passing statistics over the years. His resilience while enduring hits in the pocket has become part of his legacy.
Stroupe wasn’t done defending Mahomes, though. He further engaged with fans and critics on social media, challenging them to produce evidence of Rodgers or other greats like John Elway and Peyton Manning with similar physical comparisons in their prime. Stroupe differentiated Mahomes from legends like Tom Brady, noting that each quarterback has a distinct body type and playing style. “Patrick takes contact and gives contact,” he explained, emphasizing Mahomes’ ability to withstand and deliver hits in a chaotic game.
Stroupe’s emphasis on Mahomes’ durability and performance serves as a reminder of the physically demanding nature of the quarterback position, and how Mahomes continues to hold his own against the league’s best, even amid the criticisms that often swirl around elite athletes. In an era where comparisons are constant and narratives shift rapidly, it’s clear that the Chiefs’ quarterback continues to garner attention, not just for his gameplay but also for the conversation he sparks among football’s legends.
