Ben Roethlisberger Called Kenny Pickett, Willing to Offer Advice

PITTSBURGH — Kenny Pickett came to the Steelers from right across the hallway at Pitt, where he played next door to Ben Roethlisberger, and while they may only have a passing connection, Roethlisberger wants to pay it forward, and said he’s willing to offer the young quarterback advice as he makes his transition to the NFL.

Pickett said the now-retired former franchise quarterback of the Steelers reached out to offer advice whenever he wanted. Not only that, but Roethlisberger made sure to let Pickett know that his number is open anytime for Pickett to call and ask for counsel.

“Ben called me up recently and that was awesome,” Pickett said. ” It’s a really special thing.”

RELATED: Sights and Sounds: Kenny Pickett’s First Throws with Steelers

Roethlisberger’s advice could be valuable for Pickett as he steps into a high-pressure situation such as the one he is in. However, Pickett does understand the expectations seeing as he played at Pitt for five seasons. Still, the potential advice that Pickett could garner from Roethlisberger may be the most key thing to him as he grows throughout the offseason.

“Ben said he’s always there for me,” Pickett said. “If I have any questions or need advice, I’ll go to him. He’s an unbelievable player, a Hall of Famer. So, he’s a guy I’ll definitely use as a resource in the coming weeks here.”

Pickett will battle it out with Mitch Trubisky and Mason Rudolph for the starting quarterback spot in training camp and the preseason. Roethlisberger’s advice can potentially help Pickett learn the game just a little bit quicker. That makes his advice as a resource incredibly valuable.