On the eve of the Steelers’ 2007 training camp, a number of players enter the season with something to prove. Here are the highlights:
Hines Ward- The 2006 season was, for the most part, a team effort in it’s mediocrity. Hines Ward was slowed some by injuries, and Big Ben’s erratic season certainly did not help, but Hines still had a relatively quiet season. He likes to speak his mind and walks a fine line sometimes with his comments about the team or the organization- and for the most part he backs it up by laying it all out on the field. Hines is no T.O., but his act can possibly get old pretty fast if laying it all out still isn’t good enough anymore. This is Hines’ time to prove whether or not he belongs with the all-time greats.
Ike Taylor- There was more then enough publicity given to Ike Taylor’s struggles last year as he spent most of the season in Bill Cowher’s doghouse. Quite simply, Ike needs to regain his 2005 form and prove wrong those who say the Steelers jumped the gun in inking him to a new deal.
James Farrior is just one Steeler
with plenty to prove this season
James Farrior- James Farrior seemed like was on track to be the next Steelers start linbacker- and he was for one season in 2004. That stellar season left everyone with high hopes, but Farrior’s 2005 and 2006 compaigns, despite being solid, failed to live up to his All-Pro season. Farrior is a leader and dependable, but he is going to have step up his game to prove his best years haven’t rapidly passed him by.
Ben Roethlisberger- It is a shame that Big Ben is going to have to prove himself all over again after all the success he had his first two seasons, but after everything that happened he is going to need to. Was last season a fluke, brought one by all his offseason woes? Even after his first two successful seasons, there were critics who thought he was just a game manager or did just enough to win. It is time for Ben to step up, become the new leader of the team, and prove to everyone that he is the Steelers’ franchise quarterback for many years to come.
Max Starks- Max Starks has to be looking over his shoulder a lot these days. Mike Tomlin recently praised Willie Colon’s progress and it appears he is on the fast track to a starting position, possibly Starks’ right tackle spot. Not to mention the Steelers were not overly impressed with Starks’ play last season and opted not to sign him to a long-term deal just yet. If Starks wants a future with the team then he is going to have to step it up. Although with the line situation the way it is presently don’t be surprised if he is kept even after another mediocre season.
Troy Polamalu- I suspect that Troy is going to get a huge contract in the coming weeks and he deserves it based on his past play. However, he is going to be under a ton of pressure to show that he’s worth all that money into the future. Troy is a great player who has the chance to be legendary if he keeps up his work ethic and fine tunes the little things.
