Roethlisberger Reveals Nearly Left Steelers Before Final Season

Ben Roethlisberger, who spent his entire 18-season NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, revealed on the Sports Spectrum podcast that he had the opportunity to play for another team during his final season but chose to stay in Pittsburgh because of his deep connection to the franchise. After a contract restructuring following the 2020 season, which made his salary more manageable for the Steelers, other teams likely showed interest in him, but Roethlisberger was committed to finishing his career where it began. He cited his loyalty and the special nature of spending 18 years with one team as reasons for declining offers, comparing himself to Joe Montana and expressing discomfort with the idea of playing elsewhere. Even after retirement, Roethlisberger turned down potential returns, such as an offer from the New York Jets following Aaron Rodgers' injury in 2023. His final season with the Steelers served as a farewell tour, ending with a win over the Cleveland Browns and solidifying his legacy as a one-team legend with 64,088 passing yards and 418 touchdowns. Roethlisberger's decision contrasts with many other quarterbacks who have played for multiple teams, underscoring the Steelers' culture of loyalty and long-term commitment to their franchise players.