"That can be tough" - Ben Roethlisberger warns Aaron Rodgers over "ego" clash with OC Arthur Smith after Steelers move

With Aaron Rodgers beginning his new chapter with the Pittsburgh Steelers, franchise legend Ben Roethlisberger offered a word of caution. The former Steelers QB voiced concern over how Rodgers might adapt to offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s rigid play-calling style.

Roethlisberger - who spent 18 seasons in Pittsburgh - has firsthand experience of the possible frictions between senior quarterbacks and coordinators. He spoke candidly on Wednesday on his 'Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger' show. The retired quarterback referenced rumors that Smith maintained complete control of the two-minute offense during Russell Wilson’s stint last season.

“That can be tough for a veteran,” Roethlisberger said (10:48 onwards). “When you’re in that rhythm, feeling out the game, you want to take control. But if you don’t have the coordinator’s trust yet, that leash stays short.”

Rodgers - who signed a $13.65 million deal with the Steelers for the 2025 season, isn’t exactly known for deferring to authority. In Green Bay, he famously clashed with head coach Matt LaFleur over control of in-game decisions, often changing plays at the line or throwing the ball away when he disliked the call.

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Roethlisberger expects "frustrations" during the Steelers' season with Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers during the Pittsburgh Steelers Minicamp. (Credits: IMAGN)

Ben Roethlisberger stressed that personal connections help resolve conflicts that arise during high-pressure game situations.

“Quarterbacks have egos, coordinators have egos, there's no doubt about it, it's how can you temper those egos in terms of working together," Roethlisberger added. (18:18 onwards)

“There are going to be frustrations...there were plenty of times where something would happen and I made the call, ‘timeout’… And you’re mad, I’m mad, come to the sidelines and get in this little bicker. But, because of the relationship, you’re able to put it to bed really quick.” (12:26).

Rodgers has already begun integrating with the Steelers, completing his first mandatory minicamp practice earlier this week. Speaking to reporters afterward, he called the decision to join Pittsburgh “the best for my soul,” alluding to personal changes off the field. This includes a recent marriage he declined to discuss in detail.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler recently reported that Arthur Smith and Aaron Rodgers are collaborating to reshape the offense around the quarterback’s preferences.

Interestingly, Smith’s NFL journey intersects with Rodgers' past in more ways than one. Before becoming the coach in Atlanta, Smith worked in Tennessee under Matt LaFleur.