There’s no question that Ben Roethlisberger is approaching the end of his NFL career, but that end could be coming up quicker than some may think.
During an appearance with The Zach Gelb Show on Wednesday, Pittsburgh Steelers legend Rod Woodson said he would be “very surprised” if Big Ben returned to the field after this season.
“Ben’s played so well for so long for Pittsburgh, he doesn’t need to apologize to anybody,” the five-time All-Pro cornerback said. “I know that he wants to prove to himself that he still can play in the NFL. But I would think the way it’s gone the last two years — well, the second half of last year and so far this year — if it stays status quo, then I would not see Ben coming back. Ben’s played a long time. He’s got a great life ahead of him. So, I would be very surprised if Ben Roethlisberger comes back in 2022.”
So far in his 18th NFL season with the Steelers, Roethlisberger is off to a pretty rough start. Through a 1-3 record, the 39-year-old quarterback has thrown 1,033 yards, four touchdowns and four interceptions on a 64.1 competition percentage. His offensive unit ranks 28th in average points (16.8) and 27th in total yards per game (301.8), per CBS Sports.
Hampered by pectoral and hip injuries, Roethlisberger’s mobility and arm strength looks to be at an all-time low.
“It’s pretty sore,” Roethlisberger said of his injuries, per Sports Illustrated. “If I showed you the picture it might bother your stomach. It’s a little black and blue. It’s just something we all have to deal with when we play the game of football.”
Roethlisberger took a pay cut with a restructured contract back in March. The new deal has four years of voidable seasons following this 2021 campaign, leaving the door wide open for retirement at the end of the year.
For now, Roethlisberger will focus on getting his team back on track with a win over the 3-1 Denver Broncos this weekend.