Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey announced his retirement on Friday, ending an eleven-year career that saw him earn nine Pro Bowl nods and a pair of First-Team All-Pro selections.
Well wishes from Pouncey’s Steeler teammates poured in following the announcement, starting with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who had trouble putting his emotions into words.
“I love you and thank you,” Roethlisberger said on Twitter.
I don't have the words…I love you and thank you. — Ben. pic.twitter.com/QcUl132mMd
— BigBen7.com (@_BigBen7) February 12, 2021
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin congratulated Pouncey on his retirement in a statement Friday, commending his leadership and community work in Pittsburgh.
— Mike Tomlin (@CoachTomlin) February 12, 2021
Pouncey’s comrades along the offensive line expressed their appreciation as well.
Unforgettable career Pounce your legacy will live on forever in Pittsburgh.Your work ethic, dedication and love for this game is unmatched. You’ll be missed brotha but the HALL OF FAME awaits you. THANK YOU @MaurkicePouncey pic.twitter.com/sYu47gzfGV
— Chukwuma Okorafor (@Chuks__76) February 12, 2021
They came into the world together, and now leave the NFL together…
Congrats to the Pouncey Twins on retiring!— Zach Banner (@ZBNFL) February 12, 2021
Congratulatory messages and well wishes for Pouncey continued to pour in throughout the day.
A great player and an even better teammate! Your commitment to the game is something I always admired! Congratulations on a hell of a career! Enjoy retirement Pounce! @MaurkicePouncey https://t.co/sOUjSjZpIC
— TJ Watt (@_TJWatt) February 12, 2021
.@MaurkicePouncey Salute ✊🏽🐐 https://t.co/CbYm9AeHQg
— Josh Dobbs (@josh_dobbs1) February 12, 2021
GATOR GREATS!!!!!! https://t.co/zFrYKznUGS
— Joe Haden (@joehaden23) February 12, 2021