Ben Roethlisberger Addresses Likely Steelers Exit

Ben Roethlisberger has not publicly committed to retiring after the season, but a report earlier this month indicated that is his expected course of action.

The future Hall of Fame quarterback said Thursday his likely Heinz Field finale will come Monday night. The Steelers still have a shot at winning the AFC North, and thus booking a first-round home game, but Monday’s matchup with the Browns will almost certainly be Big Ben’s final home game with the team.

Looking at the bigger picture, I would say all signs are pointing to this could be it — regular season, that is,” Roethlisberger said, via ESPN.com’s Brooke Pryor. “I know we still have a chance to potentially get a playoff game there if things fall our way and we take care of business and things have to happen. In the grand scheme of things, in terms of regular seasons, signs are pointing that way that this could be it.”

Although this has not been one of Roethlisberger’s best seasons, the Steelers will certainly feature a QB void once their 18-year starter moves on. Mason Rudolph is signed beyond this season, but the franchise has long tabled an acquisition of a true heir apparent. The Steelers agreed to bring Big Ben back, at a reduced rate, this year. Saddled with an inexperienced offensive line, Roethlisberger has thrown 20 touchdown passes compared to eight interceptions. The 39-year-old passer sits 24th in QBR.

Roethlisberger did not slam the door on playing for another team beyond this season, but that should not be expected. It is rather difficult to envision another team bringing him in to start at age 40. That said, the Steelers would be in better position to return to the playoffs had Roethlisberger not tested positive for COVID-19 in November. The Rudolph-quarterbacked tie against the Lions has the Steelers holding a 12% chance to make the playoffs, per FiveThirtyEight.com.

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