Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Ben Roethlisberger (Miami (OH)) - 2004 NFL Draft Pick #11 by PIT

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Ben Roethlisberger (2004 NFL Draft)

College: Miami University (Ohio)
Position: Quarterback

Overview

Ben Roethlisberger emerged as one of the top quarterback prospects leading up to the 2004 NFL Draft. Known for his impressive size, strong arm, and ability to extend plays, he was seen as a potential franchise quarterback for teams in need of a signal-caller.

Strengths

• Physical Attributes: At 6'5" and over 240 pounds, Roethlisberger possessed the ideal size for a quarterback, allowing him to see over defenders and withstand hits.
• Arm Strength: He showcased a strong arm, capable of making all the necessary throws, including deep passes and tight-window throws.
• Mobility: Despite his size, Roethlisberger was surprisingly agile, allowing him to evade pressure and make plays on the run.
• Football IQ: His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions was praised, especially for a college quarterback.
• Leadership: Roethlisberger was known for his leadership qualities on and off the field, earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike.

Weaknesses

• Experience: Coming from a smaller program, some scouts were concerned about his level of competition and the lack of experience against elite defenses.
• Consistency: While he had impressive games, there were also moments of inconsistency in his performance that raised questions about his readiness for the NFL.
• Injury Concerns: His playing style, which involved taking hits, raised concerns about his durability in the NFL.

Projected Draft Position

Roethlisberger was widely projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2004 NFL Draft, with some teams considering him as the second or third quarterback off the board behind Eli Manning and Philip Rivers.

Conclusion

Ben Roethlisberger was viewed as a high-upside prospect with the potential to develop into a star quarterback in the NFL. His combination of size, arm strength, and leadership made him an attractive option for teams looking to secure a long-term solution at quarterback.