Even assuming Ben Roethlisberger decides to play another year in 2021, this era of Steelers football is undeniably coming to an end. Long-time center Maurkice Pouncey has told teammates he’s likely retiring, sources told Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (Twitter link).
Dulac adds that barring a change of heart the official decision could come soon. It seemed like this was a strong possibility, especially after Roethlisberger’s actions after their playoff loss to Cleveland seemed to indicate he knew it would be his last game with Pouncey. Assuming nothing changes, it’ll wrap up a truly legendary career in Pittsburgh. Pouncey was the 18th overall pick back in 2010, and has spent his entire decorated career with the team.
He earned a Pro Bowl berth and second-team All-Pro selection as a rookie, and added plenty of other accolades over the next decade. All told, he’ll hang up his cleats having made nine Pro Bowls and five All-Pro teams in 11 seasons. The only two years he didn’t make the Pro Bowl were when he only played one game in 2013 and missed the entire season in 2015.
Outside of those two injury-riddled campaigns he’s been pretty durable, starting at least 13 games in each of the other nine years. Pittsburgh’s O-line as a whole regressed this year, as the once dominant unit is getting up there in age.
It’s the second big retirement of the day after news of Greg Olsen calling it a wrap broke earlier Sunday. All of us here at PFR wish the Florida product all the best with whatever comes next.
Absolutely one of my all time favorite Steelers. Always stood up for his qb. Would love for him and Ben to come back and send them both out on top.
Of all of the absolute class act H.O.F. players that have played for the Steelers organization, Maurkice Pouncey is the one that you pick as an all time favorite?
If he could, Aaron Hernandez would agree with you.
link to behindthesteelcurtain.com
Oh you’re right. I don’t like him anymore. Thanks
On top of what 8-8 at best? What would you want to bring back Ben and his wing duck arm and a hobbled center for? For Maurkice to trip a woman going into the bathroom for Ben to assault?
Hahahaha, ouch! But that was funny!
Very loyal Steeler fan here and a true fan of Ben. If he comes back it will be for the fans. There are just too many holes to fill and a big cap issue. I hope Ben is back but a rebuild truly needs to start! To get a franchise QB it will unfortunately take a 4-12 season at some point.
When he does leave they simply should trade anyone of value and stockpile picks
Ugh. A favorite note gone. Well deserved. Now, did his brother retire…? Just saying…
Highly overrated player, but was always a solid center.
He was overrated towards the end of his career when the injuries took their toll, but he is one of, if not the best center of this last decade
All I remember about this jack wagon is his “free Hernandez” hat. A thug just as Aaron was!
Wore a “free Hernandez” hat, just another thug like Aaron was!
One more time… we are still unsure if you liked Pouncey or not.
I like how you can’t tell if this comment section is newsmax or PFR.
Good, he can retire and wear his “Free Hernandez” shirts all he wants now… hahaha