The Pittsburgh Steelers find themselves in a challenging quarterback situation after consecutive home losses to the Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots. The idea of Ben Roethlisberger coming out of retirement to rejoin the Steelers has crossed the minds of many fans, sparking nostalgia and excitement. However, the likelihood of this scenario becoming a reality remains remote.
Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger
Steelers quarterback on his podcast Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger.
While the Steelers have been navigating their quarterback woes, 38-year-old Joe Flacco, now with the Cleveland Browns, delivered an impressive performance against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 14. Flacco threw for 311 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, prompting discussions about Roethlisberger's potential return.
On Monday, during an episode of his podcast Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers legend addressed the notion of unretiring and rejoining the team with a touch of humor. Roethlisberger jokingly quipped, "I'm good," when asked about the possibility of a comeback. He went on to provide a more straightforward response.
"No, the Steelers have not called me. The wing feels great. The legs? No good. I can sit in the pocket, just don't let me get out of the pocket."
At 41 years old, Roethlisberger faces significant physical challenges that would make a return to NFL action highly improbable. While Steelers fans would undoubtedly welcome him back with open arms, the reality is that Roethlisberger is not in the physical condition necessary to lead an NFL team to victory.
Consideration Of Offensive Line
The state of the Steelers' offensive line adds another layer of complexity to the prospect of Roethlisberger's return. A top-tier offensive line might make his comeback more feasible, but the current line will not offer the protection he would require. Roethlisberger's ability to escape the pocket, a skill he once possessed, has expectedly diminished with age.
Nonetheless, Roethlisberger confirms that his arm strength remains intact, emphasizing his confidence in his ability to throw the football effectively. It's likely that Roethlisberger has watched these games, envisioning the opportunity to be in the pocket and connect with talented receivers like George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, and Diontae Johnson. However, the reality is that this dream scenario is hindered by the significant offensive line challenges the Steelers have encountered in the 2023 season. Considering the team's struggles in pass protection, witnessing Roethlisberger taking hits from younger and faster defensive players would not be a pleasant sight.
Steelers’ Current Quarterback Situation
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Steelers quarterbacks throwing during the Steelers 2022 OTA's.
With starting quarterback Kenny Pickett sidelined due to injury until the end of the regular season and Mitch Trubisky assuming the starting role, the Steelers face challenges at the quarterback position. Trubisky, with a 2-4 record as a starter with the Steelers, has struggled during his time with the team, leaving doubts about his ability to lead the Steelers to victory.
Coach Mike Tomlin has faced calls from fans to start Mason Rudolph over Trubisky, especially during Pickett's absence. However, Tomlin has remained steadfast in his support of Trubisky as the starter.
Tony Avelar/Associated Press
Mason Rudolph almost pulled out a win in his first ever start against the San Francisco 49ers in 2019.
Rudolph hasn't thrown a pass for the Steelers since the 2021 season, raising questions about his current standing within the team. If Tomlin believed that Rudolph possessed the ability to outperform Trubisky and lead the team effectively, he would likely be the starting quarterback. Tomlin's primary objective is to win games, and if he has chosen to stick with Trubisky, it implies he doesn't see Rudolph as the solution.
Another factor to consider is the financial investment made in Trubisky, who holds the title of the highest-paid backup quarterback in the entire NFL. The Steelers organization might be motivated to maximize their return on this investment, providing further rationale for Trubisky's continued presence as the starter.
Regardless of whether it's Rudolph or Trubisky under center, one thing remains evident. Steelers fans are yearning for the return of Kenny Pickett. The absence of their quarterback has been sorely felt, and the team's struggles in his absence have left fans longing for his return to action.
Reality Check For Roethlisberger's Return
While the notion of Roethlisberger making a heroic return to save the season may be enticing, both logic and Roethlisberger himself suggest that it's an unlikely scenario. For now, it remains a fun and hopeful thought, but it is not a practical solution to the Steelers' quarterback challenges.
In the short term, the Steelers will rely on Trubisky to prove his doubters wrong and bounce back in a crucial game against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday. If the team harbors any actual playoff aspirations, Trubisky must elevate his performance across all facets of the offensive game.
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