By: Jonathan Clark
SteelerNation.com
Throughout the past couple of off-seasons, if you were to ask Ben Roethlisberger if he sees himself playing many more years past the 2019 season, his answer would be something along the lines of “I am just taking it one year at a time”. Disappointing for us Steeler fans to hear, but understandably so. The future Hall of Fame quarterback has had his share of injuries since the beginning of his playing years, and has a rough and tough style to the way that he plays. One thing we all know as Steeler fans is, that style of play is not going anywhere. It is what defines Ben Roethlisberger.
This off-season has been a little bit different than most in many more ways than one. Ben Roethlisberger has been open and vocal about playing past his expiring contract after the 2021 season. Music to not only Steeler fans ears, but apparently also to the organizations. In an interview with Ed Bouchette of The Athletic on Thursday, Pittsburgh Steelers President Art Rooney ll, discussed the possibility of signing the star QB to a deal when his current contract runs out. He is quoted as saying:
"Obviously after the season we'll evaluate his contract situation along with other contract decisions we have to make. But if Ben feels like playing longer and it looks like he's capable of doing it, certainly that would be a great scenario."
Photo posted on Post-Gazette.com
There have been reports throughout this training camp with quotes from Steelers reporters stating that Roethlisberger has been looking better than ever, and clearly has the organization backing him. Steelers GM Kevin Colbert has been quoted as saying that he believes Roethlisberger’s arm might be better than ever following off-season elbow surgery, one that put his playing career in jeopardy. Whether or not these reports are true, we will have to wait and see. As loyal Steelers fans that we are, I really do not think there is any doubt in our minds that Roethlisberger can come back better than ever. These reports just make this seem like more and more of a possibility.
The only eyes that have been consistently watching Roethlisberger have been the faces of the Pittsburgh Steelers organization, and if they are saying they want to extend a 38-year old quarterback past his age 39 season, then his play on the field must be raising some eyebrows.
Do you think the Steelers should sign Roethlisberger to a contract past the 2021 season? Comment below!
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