Ben Roethlisberger remains mum on future with the Steelers
Days before the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Baltimore Ravens in Week 13, reports surfaced that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger plans to retire after the 2021 season.
Roethlisberger didn’t address the situation until after the comeback win over the Ravens, voicing that he’s only focused on this season and nothing further.
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“I haven’t told everybody that, no,” Roethlisberger said Sunday night via ESPN. “Honestly, we just got done with this game, I’m exhausted. We play in a couple hours, it feels like. That’s my focus. My focus is on Minnesota and what we have to do to get ready.
“I’ll address any of that stuff after the season. I’ve always been a one-game-at-a-time, one-season-at-a-time person. I’m going to stay that way.”
Roethlisberger likely doesn’t want his playing future to become a potential distraction. However, it’s hard to brush away that story as he’s been the face of the franchise for nearly two decades.
He’s played a significant part in the team’s identity while helping the franchise reach sustained success. Roethlisberger has notably struggled this season, as his production has waned as he’s 18th with 2,758 passing yards, tied for 14th with 15 touchdown passes, and 24th with a 44.4 quarterback rating.
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The 39-year-old has played through much of the season dealing with lingering injuries, while questions remain concerning his arm strength. Despite that, the Steelers remain in the playoff hunt, sitting a game out of the final wildcard playoff spot.
Pittsburgh’s remaining five games feature matchups against the Ravens, Minnesota Vikings, Tennessee Titans, Kansas City Chiefs, and Cleveland Browns.
