Here are three reasons the Steelers are making a mistake by bringing Roethlisberger back
While it was recently announced that Ben Roethlisberger was set to return for the 2021 season, it may not be the best long-term option for the team. While the future Hall of Famer deserves to go out on his own terms, the team is in quite a precarious position going into the offseason. While the cap savings wouldn’t be a major factor assuming he gets extended instead of retiring, bring back Roethlisberger is still a bad choice. These are the three reasons that the Steelers are making the wrong move by bringing back Roethlisberger.
Risk to him
It is no secret that Roethlisberger is lacking the mobility that he used to possess in his prime. As well, his age has caused him to suffer a wide variety of injuries recently. The road doesn’t get any easier for him, as his offensive line is regressing, and his run game is lacking. No matter the additions that the team makes there this offseason, these groups will still be issues in 2021. He is entering a hostile situation that could lead to him hurting this upcoming season.
Specifically, with the offensive line, Roethlisberger may not be able to finish out the season due to the deterioration that the line will go through. Maurkice Pouncey retired, Alejandro Villanueva is likely gone in free agency, and even a stalwart like David DeCastro seemed to regress. If this line can’t protect Roethlisberger like they have the previous season, he may suffer through an injury-plagued season in 2021.