Big Ben Not Happy About Arians Exit

Added on Jan 27, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

When Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians was essentially forced to retire last week, it left many players scratching their heads. At the top of the list of those bothered by the decision is quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who would like an explanation about the abrupt departure from team management. Arians was partly responsible for the development of Big Ben into one of the league’s top signal-callers.

Team president Art Rooney II has been cryptic regarding Arians exit, which isn’t sitting well with Roethlisberger.

“When I get back [from the Pro Bowl], I’m going to go up to Mr. Rooney’s office and ask him what he wants from me, what he wants from this offense, because I think that’s a viable question for him,” Roethlisberger told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review on Thursday. “He’s our owner and our boss, so I really would like to know kind of what he wants and where he sees our offense going because I’d like to tell him where I see us going.”

Rooney probably wants to see the offense finish better than 22nd in scoring, especially when the defense boasts the number one ranked unit in points and yards allowed. The Steelers became a pass first attack in 2011 due in part to an erratic offensive line and a subpar season from running back Rashard Mendenhall. Wide receivers Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown both eclipsed 1000 yards.

With the current roster makeup more suited to throwing the ball downfield, it will be interesting to see who the team pegs as a replacement for Arians. Both Wallace and Brown are emerging stars, and with Mendenhall’s availability for training camp in doubt after a late season knee injury, it’s logical to assume the Steelers might transition to a pass oriented system.

As for Arians, he hasn’t ruled out a return to coaching. Rumors linking him to several teams have been persistent since he announced his intention to retire.

Source: NFL.com