Steelers’ Miller putting together career year

Associated Press

PITTSBURGH

Ben Roethlisberger stopped by Heath Miller’s locker and decided it was time to throw his tight end’s hat into the political ring.

“Forget Pro Bowl, I’m going to make him president of the United States,” the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback said with a laugh.

When asked what Miller’s platform would be, Roethlisberger — who installed himself as Miller’s campaign manager — kept it simple.

“You should be tough, be tough like Heath,” he said.

Forgive Roethlisberger for his exuberance, and never mind that at age 30 Miller is still too young to run for the White House. Considering the way Miller has quietly and responsibly carried himself through his steady eight-year career, it’s no wonder Roethlisberger wouldn’t mind having his good friend running the country.

Not that Miller would consider it. Running for president would require bringing attention to himself, something Miller has avoided with the same kind of agility that’s made him one of the league’s most consistent tight ends for the better part of a decade.

Even now, in the midst of perhaps his finest season, Miller seems just happy to do his part for a 3-3 team still searching for a rhythm heading into Sunday’s game against Washington (3-4).

Listen to Miller talk and you wouldn’t think he’s second on the team in receptions (31) and tied with New England’s Rob Gronkowski for the NFL lead for touchdown catches by a tight end with five. On paper — and on the field — it looks like Miller is in the midst of a career year. Not that he’s paying attention or anything.

“You can look at the stats and make determinations based on that but I feel I’m the same player I’ve always been,” Miller said.

One that may finally be stepping into the spotlight whether he likes it or not.

Roethlisberger has always considered Miller a “security blanket” since the day the Steelers selected him in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft. The bond between the two appears stronger than ever, particularly around the goal line.

Miller’s touchdowns this season have all been nine yards or less, a tribute to the way Miller can get his 6-foot-5 frame to work within confined spaces. In last week’s 24-17 win over Cincinnati, Miller cut across the middle, hauled in a fastball from Roethlisberger then absorbed a couple of shots before coming down with the ball to help the Steelers tie the game late in the first half.