Steelers' First Rounder Troy Fautanu Was Inspired By Legendary Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger

The Pittsburgh Steelers were miraculously somehow able to reach one of the best offensive linemen entering the 2024 NFL Draft Thursday night with their 20th overall pick. Troy Fautanu out of the University Of Washington is now officially a member of the Black and Gold. Fautanu, 23, grew up a Steelers fan. After a dream come true for Fautanu, the stud offensive tackle will be playing for a franchise where his favorite players like Troy Polamalu and Ben Roethlisberger built legacies. 

Fautanu was a two-year starter for the Huskies and earned Third Team All-American and Polynesian College Player of the Year last season. As arguably the best tackle in the 2024 NFL Draft, there wasn't much hope or speculation that the Steelers would be able to land Fautanu. As each of the 19 teams ahead of Pittsburgh decided to look in other directions, the Steelers got their guy, and he could be the legitimate future of the Steelers' offensive line. 

During his first press conference in Pittsburgh, Fautanu reflected on his younger days and growing up as a Steelers fan. After being selected by his favorite team Thursday night, he revealed that his favorite player was always Polamalu. Friday, Fautanu was asked why he thinks this franchise captivated him as a young football player. He then explained his admiration for the organization's grit and one player specifically, Roethlisberger.

"Just the grit that the team plays with. I grew up a really big fan of Ben Roethlisberger, that's what I've always seen him do. I mean he's out there commanding the team and commanding that offense and I always thought he was one of the toughest guys I've ever seen play. Like, he'd get hit and get right back up, you know? That inspired me to play the way that I do."

Roethlisberger has been retired for two seasons now, and the Steelers have struggled since. The two-time Super Bowl champion and future Hall of Fame quarterback represented what Steelers football was for 18 years, inspiring young players like Fautanu. Since Roethlisberger's retirement, it seems that the Steelers have lost some of their culture and mentality. Selecting Fautanu might help the Steelers and their offense regain that tough football mentality. 

As far as we've seen from Fautanu, one thing for certain it seems is the promising prospect emphasizes the Steelers' mentality. He's a smash-mouth blocker that loves to hit people. The excitement that he has for becoming a Steeler is especially encouraging for Pittsburgh.