In a moment that left both fans and analysts stunned, former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger set the NFL world buzzing after he made an unexpected and highly controversial statement on a recent episode of his podcast. Without mincing words, the Steelers legend referred to head coach Mike Tomlin as an “idiot” who, in his view, has played a key role in “ruining the Steelers.” The bold declaration sent shockwaves through social media, leaving fans amused, confused, and deeply divided.
The moment came during a casual segment of Roethlisberger’s podcast Footbahlin with Ben, where he was discussing the current state of the franchise and reminiscing about his years in Pittsburgh. The conversation quickly turned tense when Roethlisberger spoke candidly about the team’s struggles in recent seasons.
“Let’s just call it like it is,” he said. “Ever since I left, this team has lacked direction. Mike Tomlin—love him as a person—but the decisions being made? Idiotic. It’s like he’s trying to rebuild something that wasn’t broken. He’s an idiot for how he’s handled this team.”
The room fell silent as the words landed, and even Roethlisberger’s co-host appeared taken aback. The internet, however, lit up immediately. Within minutes, clips of the comment were circulating on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok. Some fans laughed off the remark, believing it was Big Ben being his usual unfiltered self. Others, however, were stunned and disappointed that the longtime quarterback would speak so harshly about the coach who stood by him through highs and lows.
Many pointed out that Mike Tomlin and Ben Roethlisberger had spent over 15 seasons together, winning a Super Bowl and appearing in another. Their relationship was widely seen as solid, though at times strained, particularly during the twilight of Ben’s career when questions about offensive strategy and leadership began to surface.
Steelers fans have now split into factions—some defending Ben’s right to speak his truth, others accusing him of throwing a respected coach under the bus. One fan wrote, “Ben sounds bitter. Tomlin’s kept this team competitive even after Ben retired.” Another fired back, “He’s not wrong. The Steelers have no identity anymore.”
As of now, Mike Tomlin has not issued a response, and the Steelers organization has remained silent on the matter. Sources close to the team suggest that while the comment may sting, Tomlin is likely to take the high road and avoid a public war of words.
Still, this surprise jab from one of the most iconic figures in Steelers history has stirred up a whirlwind of discussion. Whether it was a moment of brutal honesty or misplaced frustration, one thing is certain—Ben Roethlisberger just reignited a fiery debate about leadership, legacy, and the current direction of one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.
