Ben Roethlisberger has been one of the most important players for the Steelers, but here’s why his game against the Browns will likely be his last at Heinz Field.
Regardless of the outcome against the Cleveland Browns in Week 17, it’s going to be a sad night for Pittsburgh Steelers fans on Monday Night Football. Gerry Dulac of Pittsburgh Post-Gazette recently reported that this game will likely be the final contest ever for Ben Roethlisberger at Heinz Field.
As of now, all signs seem to point to Big Ben retiring following the 2021 season, and it may take something drastic (like the Steelers winning out, sneaking into the playoffs, and performing well in the post-season) in order to change that.
Sadly, this looks like the end for the two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback. Here’s what he had to say when addressing the media on Thursday morning, according to Joe Rutter of TribLIVE:
Ben Roethlisberger talks about “all signs pointing to” this being his last home game with Steelers. pic.twitter.com/81KJglmeqt
— Joe Rutter (@tribjoerutter) December 30, 2021
Though he clearly doesn’t like to speak in guarantees, there’s nothing in Roethlisberger’s comments that suggests that he has intentions of returning beyond the 2021 season. Even if he wanted to, at this point, this would be something the Pittsburgh Steelers would have to agree to. With the way he has played this season, a mutual parting seems to be best for the franchise.
All eyes on Ben Roethlisberger vs Browns
You better believe the focus of this Week 17 contest is going to shift to Ben Roethlisberger. To be fair, it should. For nearly two decades, Roethlisberger has been one of the most productive quarterbacks in the NFL. Ben recently moved into 5th place all-time in NFL passing yards — jumping ahead of Philip Rivers.
More than anything, Roethlisberger will be known for his winning demeanor and ability to transform his squad into playoff (and even Super Bowl) contenders in many of his 18 NFL seasons. According to Pro Football Reference, Ben’s 163-81-1 career record is good for winning 66 percent of contests he starts.
Fans will watch in excitement against the Browns knowing that this is likely his last hurrah at Heinz Field with a stadium full of crazed fans. I can only imagine what will be going through his head as he pans the stadium to see the Terrible Towels swirl and feel the energy of “Renegade” one last time.
If this is to be it for Big Ben, we all hope that he goes out swinging and gives us one last memorable performance at Heinz Field. It has been a joy to watch him over the years, but it’s really looking like this will be Ben Roethlisberger’s final home game of his Hall of Fame NFL career.