It is virtually impossible for there not to be a leadership void, at least initially, following the retirement of a team’s franchise quarterback. And the Pittsburgh Steelers have lost a lot more than just Ben Roethlisberger over the past couple of seasons, most notably offensive linemen Maurkice Pouncey and Ramon Foster.
So many of the faces on both sides of the ball that formerly were associated with the leadership of this roster are now gone, and they are looking toward the younger generation to step up. Second-year running back Najee Harris intends to be that guy—but also sees an opportunity to build a new leadership structure in the team.