Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger looks like he spent the offseason sipping from the fountain of youth. At a point in his career where players his age, 36, are slowing down, Roethlisberger looks revitalized.

One reason is that Roethlisberger apparently hooked up with a nutritionist this offseason. Ultimately, he eliminated sugars and carbohydrates from his diet. The results have him looking the best he has since his rookie season.

The second reason could very well be that his longtime confidant, Randy Fichtner, is running the offense. This move most likely energized Roethlisberger and is why he seems to be having so much fun in camp.

Todd Haley did wonders for Roethlisberger’s career. His offense was tailored to keep his quarterback healthy while allowing Roethlisberger to put up some monster numbers. The only thing apparently lacking between the two was trust.

However successful the pair might have been, the tension between Roethlisberger and Haley was always clear. It’s what most likely lead to serious thoughts of retirement.

It’s no coincidence that within days of the announcement that Haley wouldn’t be returning, Roethlisberger suddenly became excited about 2018 and beyond.

Roethlisberger’s reinvigorated attitude is reflected in his physical appearance, and the best camp he’s had since Fichtner has been in Pittsburgh.

Fichtner recently gave Ed Bouchette his thoughts on Roethlisberger’s appearance and performance during training camp.

“I know he feels better walking off the field,” said Fichtner, Roethlisberger’s new offensive coordinator and old quarterbacks coach. “He’s noticed down all the way with two [practice] periods left to go. I’ve seen him walk off the field a couple nights. It’s just totally different in that regard.

“I would say it’s the best camp he’s had,” added Fichtner, part of Mike Tomlin’s first staff in 2007. “The only reason I say this is because he’s in the best shape since I’ve had him. Now, obviously, when you’re younger you know you can probably move a little better, maybe his arm might have been a tad livelier.”

Fichtner’s priority will obviously be to keep Roethlisberger healthy, but he is smart enough to trust him as well. That could very well translate in Fichtner giving Roethlisberger the freedom to call plays when needed.

What that ultimately could mean is that the Steelers might finally stop trading touchdowns for field goals in the red zone. Also, expect to see a lot more play action this season. That is something Roethlisberger was great at, but Haley seemed to become quite allergic to.