To the dismay of many Steelers fans, Heath Miller's career has come to an end. Miller was an 11-year veteran and one of Big Ben's main safety blankets over his career.

As news of the retirement spread, Ben Roethlisberger shared this interaction between he and Miller to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:

"He thanked me for being his teammate and said how lucky he was to play with just one quarterback for all of his 11 years in the NFL. I told him he had it all wrong. I told him I was the lucky one."

Heath retires as the Steelers’ all-time leader among tight ends in receptions (592), receiving yards (6,569), and receiving touchdowns (45). When compared to all Steeler receivers, Miller is second in career receptions, and fourth in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. He's one of only four Steelers players to record 500 receptions, and one of only five to record 6,000 receiving yards or 40 receiving touchdowns. Given that the Steelers are one of the oldest franchises, these numbers are no small accomplishment.

Beyond the numbers, some of the biggest things that Miller brought to the table were intangibles.

Miller was a very unassuming player. His contributions on the gridiron were never eye-popping, but he did whatever the team needed him to do. He never complained if he went un-targeted, even if, according to Ben Roethlisberger, there were numerous occasions where the film showed Miller was wide open on a play and his contributions as a run blocker made him one of the best all around tight ends in football.

Miller also brought a great work ethic to the Steelers. He scored a 39 out of 50 on the Wonderlic test at the combine. Miller admits he's no genius, and that if he were given that test at random he likely wouldn't score as well. However, Miller prepared for that test like it was a playoff game. It basically underscores his entire career. He wouldn't ever put up Gronkowski-ish numbers, but his hard work always led to catching a clutch touchdown or first down. A trait which helped him acquire two Superbowl rings with the Steelers.

Heath Miller moves on from the NFL as one of the underrated greats and leaves one of the most recognizable chants in football behind.
 

NFL & Fantasy Football Chat Room

[iflychat_embed id="c-0" hide_user_list="yes" hide_popup_chat="no" height="400px"]