Ben Roethlisberger Uncertain of Future

Ben Roethlisberger has been the Steeler’s quarterback since 2004. He has been regarded as one of the best in the league since then. Only once has his team had a losing record and he has made the playoffs 9 times. Not to mention, Big Ben has a more than respectable 2 Super Bowl wins. The veteran has 136 career wins (playoffs included) and only 67 losses. He ranks 10th all time in passing yards with 46814, 9th in passing touchdowns with 301, 11th all time in completions with 3804, 10th all time in completion percentage and 9th in career passer rating at 94.1. Along with that, he ranks 11th all time in winning percentage at 68% and 8th all time in career wins with 123. As for playoffs, he ranks 9th all time in wins with 13, 6th all time in passing yards with 4787 and 10th in passing touchdowns with 25.

After a blowout loss to the Patriots in the AFC Championship, Roethlisberger said he was unsure if he will be returning next season. Though this definitely comes as a surprise to most football fans, as he is one of the most fierce competitors in the league and is known for putting his body on the line for the team and often playing through injuries, his health is becoming a concern as he turns 35 in March. The 2004 Offensive Rookie of the Year has missed 25 games over the course of his career, including 2 earlier this season. With the new findings of future health effects injuries have on NFL players, it is less surprising to think about a possible Big Ben retirement especially when you consider his large injury past and his tough, back yard style of play that often isn’t seen in the league these days. No doubt, his body has taken a beating over the years.

While it would be sad to see him go, as he is undoubtedly one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game, it would definitely be wise for him to begin thinking about his future beyond football. His health is what is most important as Roethlisberger has a wife and three kids.

We do not see him stepping away from the game just yet, but if he were to do so would anyone blame him? He has all time great stats, two Super Bowl wins and is a lock for the Hall of Fame. Prioritising his health and his family over his already extraordinary career at this point is probably the best move for him. Yet as a football fan it is hard to imagine the AFC without the future Hall of Famer. At this point, we can only wait to see what his final decision is, however being the competitor he is, we don’t see him retiring this way; following a blowout loss to rival Tom Brady.

Is it possible that Ben is frustrated with his lack of playoff success since his last Super Bowl win? After all, the Steelers haven't reached the big game in 8 years and are just 5-5 since their last appearance. In those 10 games, he has thrown for 10 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Perhaps a combination of health issues and frustration could be the cause of his uncertainty. I mean the guy is one of the most intense players to step on the field. Whatever he decides on, we will definitely understand. If this is the end, we wish him a happy retirement and have to appreciate being able to watch one of the game’s best. If it's not the end, we are in for another exciting season from the super star.