Former Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger came back for one last year with the team in 2021, but apparently, not everyone within the organization was too thrilled with the two-time Super Bowl champion’s return.
Roethlisberger revealed that both Steelers’ general manager Kevin Colbert and head coach Mike Tomlin were both ready to move on from Roethlisberger heading into the 2021 season, with Colbert especially upset with his return. Owner Art Rooney, however, wanted him back.
“It was mostly Kevin [Colbert]. He was ready to move on. I think Mike [Tomlin] was a little ready to move on, but I think he was OK with me coming back,” Roethlisberger told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. “I think Mr. [Art] Rooney really wanted me to come back last year to play.”
Despite the cold reaction to his return, Roethlisberger is at peace with his decision to his return and is happy with his performance.
“I thought I went out on my terms. I never wanted to stay too long. I know some people might think I did. ‘You stayed last year.’ But I thought I played pretty well last year, to be honest,” Roethlisberger said. “My arm feels like I still could go out and play. I’m pretty confident I could still play. But it’s every day. It’s mental. Not having to prepare for camp and the season has been the biggest blessing for me. I’m fine with where I’m at with everything.”
In his final NFL season, Roethlisberger threw for 3,740 yards and 22 touchdowns with a 64.5 completion percentage.
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