From an Ohio kid to the 11th overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Ben Roethlisberger built a memorable career that will likely land him in the Hall of Fame.

The former quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers has become eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2027, sports writer Dov Kleiman reported May 24.

Roethlisberger will have his first shot at the gold jacket after fulfilling the mandatory requirement of being retired for five seasons.

His statistical records and historical impact on the Steelers throughout his 18-year NFL journey (2004-2021) have placed him as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his era. 

Per Eric Edholm of NFL.com, Roethlisberger’s two Super Bowl wins and passing totals make him a strong first-ballot candidate. 

"With two Super Bowl victories and passing totals that rank him among the all-time greats, Roethlisberger is a strong first-ballot candidate when he becomes eligible in 2027," Edholm wrote May 20.

Ben Roethlisberger started gaining recognition early in his career. He was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and made it to the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2004. He also earned six Pro Bowl selections during his career (2007, 2011, 2014-2017). 

Statistically, he recorded 64,088 yards, 418 TDs, with 64.4% completion percentage. He played 249 games for Pittsburgh, of which 247 games saw him as the starter.

Roethlisberger remained competitive for nearly two decades, accumulated impressive offensive statistics, maintained a high winning percentage, and, of course, won two Super Bowls. 

Fans of the quarterback took to social media to share their thoughts and excitement over the quarterback’s HOF eligibility.

NFL Fans React to Ben Roethlisberger’s Hall of Fame Eligibility

On hearing the news of Roethlisberger becoming eligible for the HOF, fans took to social media and commented under Dov Kleiman’s post on X. 

“First-ballot or not, he’s been living in Hall of Fame debates rent-free for years anyway,” commented a fan, referring to the historic records Roethlisberger set, making him a hot topic in NFL circles often. 

“No QB has ever played the game quite like Big Ben,” another fan commented in agreement.

Big Ben was 6'5" and weighed 240 pounds; he was a formidable force, something fans pointed out.

“His passing accuracy was laser-like and he could toss a 260-lb linebacker off his back and throw a TD pass. Unstoppable in his prime and fearless throughout his career,” added another.

“Not even a question. He defined an era”, commented a straightforward fan.

In NFL circles, Roethlisberger is considered one of the all-time greats. 

“First-ballot Hall of Famer! No questions asked! I think he also has the most 500-yard passing games,” a fan wrote.

A fan was doubtful about the QB’s eligibility going through during the first ballot, but continued being excited.

“Not the 1st eligible, but will ultimately end up in the HOF,” wrote another.

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Shubhi Rathore