Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger focused on ‘right now’ and not the end of his career
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s NFL future beyond the 2021 season has become a prominent discussion in recent weeks.
Roethlisberger hasn’t denied the notion that he’s nearing the end of his playing days but hasn’t fully addressed the matter. The 39-year-old went that route again this week, voicing that his focus remains on leading the Steelers forward.
“I’m living right here, right now,” Roethlisberger said Wednesday, asked if he thinks about how his own career will end via ESPN. “We’ve got to make a run. We’ve got to play good football. We’ve got to play great football. That starts right here with me. I can’t get caught looking at the end because I need to focus on right here, this week.”
Roethlisberger isn’t going to change course on the dialogue until he feels it’s appropriate. That likely won’t come until after the 2021 season as he’s hoping to push the Steelers to the playoffs.
The retirement chatter has hovered around him over the last couple of years as he hinted at it on several occasions. However, he’s continued to remain committed to extending his career.
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The outside has grown louder in 2021 as he’s struggled to perform at a high level. He’s dealt with nagging injuries while questions linger concerning his arm strength.
Roethlisberger is ranked 12th with 3,066 passing yards along with tied for 11th with 19 touchdown passes and 24th with a 43.4 quarterback rating. Ultimately, there won’t be any clarity on his NFL future until the Steelers head into the offseason.
