Emmanuel Sanders says he still has “love” for Ben Roethlisberger, his former quarterback with the Steelers, but his heart is with a new NFL champion now.
The new Broncos receiver has only had a handful of practices with Peyton Manning, but Sanders is already singing his praises – while throwing a few jabs at Roethlisberger in the process.
“I feel like Peyton is a far better leader, in terms of staying after practice, catching balls, wanting guys to get on the same page with him, things of that sort,” Sanders told Denver’s 104.3 The Fan. “This is the first time that I’ve had a quarterback that every single day after practice — no matter what his accolades, NFL MVP, Super Bowl ring — he keeps guys like me and [rookie receiver Cody] Latimer after practice. … He’s not one of those guys you’ve got to chase down. He’s going to be right in the same spot, ready to work, every single day. I just feel like that’s a difference from a mental standpoint.”
Sanders made sure to say he still respects Roethlisberger, but he doesn’t seem to miss him.
“I’ve got so much love for Ben,” Sanders said. “At the same time, I’m not going to lie. I’m happy to be part of this organization and happy that Peyton is my quarterback.”