Ward, who is now part of the Arizona State coaching staff, has had a firsthand look at Rashada’s work ethic, toughness, and competitive nature. In an interview discussing the team’s offseason development, Ward couldn’t help but compare Rashada’s mindset to that of Roethlisberger, recalling moments where Big Ben simply refused to let his team lose.
“He was not gonna be denied,” Ward said, referring to Rashada’s grit during intense practices and comeback efforts. “It reminds me so much of Ben. No matter how bad things looked, you always believed that as long as Ben was out there, we had a chance. I see that same fight in Jaden.”
Ben Roethlisberger earned his reputation as one of the toughest quarterbacks to ever play the game. Known for shaking off defenders, extending plays, and coming through in clutch moments, Big Ben led the Steelers to two Super Bowl victories and countless fourth-quarter comebacks. Comparing any young quarterback to him is no small statement. Yet Ward sees potential in Rashada that goes beyond physical talent.
“Of course, Ben was built like a linebacker and could take hits that most quarterbacks couldn’t,” Ward continued. “But what separated him was his mentality. He was fearless, and he wanted the ball in his hands when it mattered most. Jaden has that same mindset. He’s not backing down from the moment.”
Rashada’s 2023 season showed flashes of that potential, even amid the challenges Arizona State faced. As a true freshman, he displayed poise, mobility, and the ability to make plays under pressure. While his stats were modest, his leadership qualities and toughness stood out to the coaching staff, including Ward.
The comparison to Roethlisberger is particularly meaningful coming from Ward, who spent over a decade catching passes from Big Ben and was often on the receiving end of game-winning plays. Ward knows what greatness looks like, and while Rashada is still early in his college career, the foundation appears promising.
For Arizona State fans, hearing that their young quarterback is being compared to an NFL legend is reason for optimism. With Ward’s guidance and mentorship, Rashada has the opportunity to develop not just his skills, but also the mindset and toughness that defined Roethlisberger’s career.
“He’s got the tools,” Ward said. “Now it’s about putting it all together. But when you have that ‘won’t be denied’ attitude, you’re already ahead of the game.”
Time will tell if Rashada can live up to such high praise, but with leaders like Hines Ward in his corner, the future looks bright.
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