After weeks of waiting, the Pittsburgh Steelers officially know that their franchise quarterback will return in 2017.
The Pittsburgh Steelers biggest concern this offseason wasn’t the free agency, the draft, or resigning a player. What scared them the most was whether or not future Hall of Famer, Ben Reothlisberger, would return in 2017.
After hinting at retirement following the 2016 AFC Championship game, the 35-year-old sent the entire Pittsburgh organization into worry.
Well, after what felt for forever, Roethlisberger confirmed to Steelers Nation that he’s coming back. Sending out his message on Twitter, Roethlisberger let the Pittsburgh franchise know he’s still got more football in him.
Informed the team I am looking forward to my 14th season. Steeler Nation will get my absolute best! — Ben.
— BigBen7.com (@_BigBen7) April 7, 2017
The two-time Super Bowl Champion gave the Steelers their biggest gift of the offseason. After resigning Antonio Brown and franchise tagging Le’Veon Bell, Pittsburgh is ready to make another playoff run in 2017.
When Roethlisberger reportedly met with pre-draft workout participants, Patrick Mahomes and later Josh Dobbs, rumors began to circulate that he’d be making his return.
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This likely won’t change the Steelers draft plans. This may have just been a scare, but Pittsburgh still needs to prepare for the future. As early as the second round the Steelers could be looking for their next franchise quarterback.
For now, though, the only thing to worry about is that Big Ben is back!