Roquan Smith You Know What You’re Saying In 2022 Nick Herbig Shocks When Re Dug Up Controversial Statement During Pride Month NFL Community Extremely Divided

The Resurfaced Quote That Caught Everyone Off Guard

During a recent interview celebrating Pride Month, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Nick Herbig was unexpectedly confronted with a three-year-old quote from current linebacker Roquan Smith. The moment read:

“You know what you’re saying in 2022.”

That phrase, originally snapped up during Smith’s rookie year, was now being questioned under a fresh lens—leading to a viral social media storm and sparking heated debate across the league.

What Did Roquan Smith Actually Say Back Then

Going back to 2022, Roquan had defended a running back facing backlash for speaking out on social issues. Smith’s phrase was meant to caution about polarized opinions—but many today see it as tone-deaf or dismissive.

Veteran analyst Shannon Sharpe reacted live:

“Context matters. But the moment we stop evaluating what leaders say—we risk ignoring real progress.”

Now, six months into Pride Month, his words are being scrutinized anew.

Nick Herbig’s Intent Sparks New Debate

Herbig, a young player known for speaking his mind, was trying to highlight how much social awareness has changed in recent years. But his delivery sparked immediate backlash:

• Some praised him:
  

  “Bravo. We need conversations like this.”

• Others criticized the move:
  

  “He just threw Roquan under the bus in a misguided spot.”

Fans and reporters are sharply divided online under hashtags like #HerbigVsSmith and #PrideMonthDebate.

Social Media Erupts With Polarized Reactions

Within hours, the NFL community blew up:

• Supporters said Herbig is a modern voice pushing accountability
• Critics accused him of being performative or opportunistic

Prominent LGBTQ+ athletes weighed in:

“Context matters. But awareness grows with every conversation.”

Still, there’s no clear consensus—yet.

Steelers Organization Stands By Smith

The Steelers organization has stepped in with a statement:

“Roquan has always respected all people and communities. We encourage ongoing dialogue among teammates in good faith.”

They also confirmed Smith has already addressed the issue privately with Herbig and is open to further discussions.

What This Means For The 2025 Season

The clash between legacy voices and new perspectives represents a broader generational tension in the NFL. As social issues become ever-present in the game, players are navigating how to express personal conviction while maintaining unity.

This moment could mark:

• A roadmap for open communication
• Or a flashpoint if accountability becomes polarizing

Conclusion An NFL Conversation Just Beginning

Nick Herbig didn’t just resurface an old quote—he lit a match under a discussion on values, time, and leadership. Roquan Smith’s words may have been from 2022, but the questions unfolding in 2025 might define how players lead both on and off the field.

One thing is clear:

Pride Month isn’t just parades—it’s a mirror.
And the NFL is now forced to confront what it sees.