The Pittsburgh Steelers are quietly looking into potential free agents who could fill the shoes of Ben Roethlisberger if the veteran decides to retire. At the moment, the Antonio Brown squad is said to be focused on signing a Jimmy Garoppolo contract this offseason. Will the New England Patriots star be the next face of the Pittsburgh Steelers?
The Super Bowl 51 winners were off to a rocky start in the 2016-17 NFL season with the Tom Brady suspension issue hanging over their heads. During his absence, the Rob Gronkowski team leaned on Jimmy Garoppolo to fill in the leadership role. This period gave the younger quarterback a chance to show off his skills. With the offseason in full swing, it looks like his hard work has paid off as multiple NFL teams reportedly want to sign a Jimmy Garoppolo contract soon.
Some sources believe that a Ben Roethlisberger retirement could come out anytime this year. This possibility undoubtedly worries the Pittsburgh Steelers. While they have Landry Jones as a reliable backup, the Antonio Brown team reportedly wants a more experienced leader. Could this mean a Jimmy Garoppolo contract?
"We hope he [Ben Roethlisberger] doesn't retire. If he does, then as an organization we'll try to move on, and we will move on. It doesn't change our planning. ... I'm working under the assumption that until he says he's retired officially, then he's not. If he decides to [retire], then we'll act accordingly, but in the meantime we're not going to get out of sorts with potential retirements," said Kevin Colbert of the possible Ben Roethlisberger retirement plans.
While no official confirmation has been given by the parties linked to a potential Jimmy Garoppolo contract to the Pittsburgh Steelers, fans refuse to disregard the rumor. Many think that the young New England Patriots star would fit perfectly with the Antonio Brown squad. Moreover, the fact that he was able to function as a reliable backup for Tom Brady makes him an attractive option for the Pittsburgh Steelers. In fact, Zack Cox of NESN described Jimmy Garoppolo to look like someone who has the potential to become a notable NFL star.
What do you think? Should the Pittsburgh Steelers sign a Jimmy Garoppolo contract this offseason? Will the New England Patriots quarterback be a good replacement for Ben Roethlisberger if the veteran decides to retire?
