In a move that’s already electrifying Steelers Nation, team owner and president Art Rooney II has appointed legendary former quarterback Ben Roethlisberger as the new Vice President of Player Personnel. The announcement comes on the heels of the internal promotion of Dan Rooney Jr., previously serving in the same capacity, to a broader executive leadership role within the franchise.
The decision marks a significant shift in the Steelers’ front office, bringing one of the team’s most iconic figures back into the fold—this time off the field. Roethlisberger, affectionately known as “Big Ben,” spent his entire 18-year career with the Steelers, leading the team to two Super Bowl championships and earning six Pro Bowl selections. His toughness, leadership, and football IQ made him a natural fit for a future in team management, and now, that future has arrived.
A Symbolic and Strategic Move
Art Rooney II called the decision both “symbolic and strategic” in a press statement earlier today.
“Ben has been the face of the franchise for nearly two decades, and his deep understanding of the game, the locker room, and our organizational values makes him uniquely qualified for this role,” said Rooney. “He knows what it takes to win in Pittsburgh.”
The position of Vice President of Player Personnel places Roethlisberger at the heart of scouting, draft strategy, and free agent evaluation—an area where his firsthand experience as a player could pay dividends. Working closely with General Manager Omar Khan and Head Coach Mike Tomlin, Roethlisberger is expected to offer valuable input into roster construction, mentorship of young talent, and long-term strategic planning.
Roethlisberger Reacts
“I’m honored and excited to start this new chapter with the only NFL family I’ve ever known,” Roethlisberger said in his official statement. “Football has always been in my blood, and to return to the game I love, working with the team that gave me everything, is a dream come true. I’m looking forward to helping shape the next generation of Steelers.”
Roethlisberger has remained closely connected to the Steelers organization since his retirement in 2022, frequently attending games, mentoring quarterbacks, and appearing on team-affiliated media. His transition into an executive role seems to have been a natural progression long in the making.
With the 2025 NFL season approaching, Roethlisberger will immediately begin work ahead of training camp. His focus will include working with scouts to identify mid-season needs, supporting player development initiatives, and collaborating with Tomlin on personnel-related decisions. His presence in the front office could also influence the team’s quarterback pipeline—a subject he knows better than most.
Fans and analysts have already begun speculating that Roethlisberger’s impact could be felt both on the field and in the locker room culture, which he helped define over nearly two decades.
This appointment signals a return to the Steelers’ tradition of loyalty, legacy, and leadership. As one franchise icon passes the torch to the next, Pittsburgh reaffirms that in the Steel City, football is more than a game—it’s a legacy.