Ben Roethlisberger’s teammates are thrilled to have him back but probably none more than wide receiver Diontae Johnson.
Johnson was a rookie last season and only got to hook up with Roethlisberger on four receptions before the quarterback’s devasting elbow injury sidelined him for the season.
The two had limited opportunities to work together last offseason. Johnson was low on the depth chart and likely got more practice and preseason reps with quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and Duck Hodges.
It was critical that the two make time to work out together this offseason and that they did.
“Just being able to work out with him, it’s been good,” said Johnson earlier this year. “Just trying to get timing down and get a feel for what he likes and what he doesn’t like and how he likes to throw the ball, certain plays, certain routes, just try to pick his brain. I might go back up there next week and work out with him again, just getting that timing down and try to get a bond with each other so we can build that trust together.”
In the longterm, Roethlisberger’s injury seems to have done more good than harm. Not only does he feel better than he has in years, but teammates are also saying he’s more communicative and excited than in the past. “He’s different this year, from what I saw last year,” Johnson said in a Wednesday press conference. “He’s more excited, anxious to get on the field and play with us.”
Johnson has even noticed an improvement in his quarterback’s arm. “Ben’s arm is way better from what it was last year.” Roethlisberger has admitted he was dealing with pain in his elbow for a couple of seasons.
“He’s cut a lot of them loose,” Johnson shared of Big Ben during training camp. “He’s throwing a nice, tight spiral.”
“Everyone wants to play for Ben. He is our leader. He is our quarterback, so everybody’s locked in.”
Having Roethlisberger under center should translate to a breakout season for the second-year receiver. Johnson posted 638 yards receiving and five touchdowns with Rudolph and Hodges at the helm — just imagine what he can do with a future Hall of Famer in the game.
