Former teammates’ and coaches’ comments on Maurkice Pouncey:
Fernando Velasco: “Pouncey. Even though he was hurt he helped me every step of the way. That shows the character of the man too. None of them knew me from dirt, but they all helped me. That’s why I still root for them today and see how they’re doing.”
Steve Johnson: “Pouncey and I would go at it a lot – he would get dirty and see if he could strike some fear in you but I didn’t let him push me around. You had to butt heads there to earn respect.”
Vance McDonald: “Al could get so fired up with almost any topic. He and Dave were good friends but would argue about everything. Then Pounce would join in and throw fuel into the fire and get Al worked up. You’d think Pouncey was heated about the topic too, then he’d look at you and give you that signature wink and you knew he was just getting a rise out of Al!”
Bryant Browning: “I watched Pouncey practice. He played fast and quick and he practiced that same way. He did everything at game speed in practice and that was very impressive to me. He brought his best to every rep.”
Kyle Friend: “Pounce was awesome. He took the time to teach me and helped me out. He was a great leader – he led by example and I learned a lot about leadership watching him, and about being a pro – through and through.”
Sean Spence: “Pouncey was a big advocate for me – he’d tell me “Spence – you’re playing again so listen to what I tell you!” That was encouraging for me.”
Casey Hampton: “In practices, Pouncey and Hartings were the toughest guys I went against. Pouncey was really quick off the ball.”
Craig Wolfley: “We’re standing doing a cheer for the team when who do I see in the middle of the group – Pouncey, balancing on two crutches and hopping on one leg. I didn’t even know he was there. I found that engaging – that’s what he’s about – the love for the game and the passion to play. Colon was there too. You have to respect that.”
Jack Bicknell Jr.: “First of all, he is extremely athletic, of course. He’s a perfect guy for an outside zone scheme. He has the quickness to reach people. He was definitely a good player.”
Bruce Gradkowski: “It isn’t affiliated with the NFL but Ramon, Pouncey, Marcus Gilbert all came by to visit with people there. They donated their time and I’m very thankful to them. These are guys not a lot of people see a lot. You only hear about guys these days when something is wrong – but there are so many good guys on the Steelers who do good things in the community.”
J.C. Hassenauer: “He’s definitely the hardest working guy I’ve ever been around. I had the opportunity to play with Mack in Atlanta too and they are both similar in that way. He works hard on every single drill in practice. He’s getting older but he hasn’t lost a step – in fact I think his endurance has gotten better! From Pouncey I just continue to learn his work ethic and get tips – all I can soak in. He’s a great guy and helps out the younger guys in his own way. He knows how to groom guys that he sees working hard.”
Tyson Alualu: “Pouncey – a Hall of Fame player – it’s tough. I’m just grateful to have had the chance to play with him.”
Justin Cheadle: “With out a doubt one of the best offensive lines I have been around. Pouncey, Foster, and Decastro were all great in taking me in and teaching me everything I needed to know.”
Joe Long: “Pouncey, Ben and Keisel were big jokesters. Pouncey and Foster together were a hoot.”