Is this how it ends for Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers?
The Pittsburgh quarterback was in tears with teammate Maurkice Pouncey at the end of the team’s 48-37 loss to the Browns on Sunday night. Roethlisberger and Pouncey remained on the bench for 10 minutes after the Steelers’ defeat, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
“I love that guy (Pouncey),” said Roethlisberger. “He is one of the best competitors and teammates I have ever had. It was a lot of fun to share a football field with him. I hate that it ended the way it did. I just wanted to apologize to him for wanting to win for him. “
Attention now shifts to the future of the 38-year-old NFL after a season of ups and downs.
“It will start between me and God,” Roethlisberger told reporters. “A lot of prayer. And a lot to talk to my family. I still have another year of contract. I hope the Steelers want me back, if that’s our way. “
It is an expensive decision. Roethlisberger owes a list bonus of $ 15 million on March 19 and his maximum limit for the season is $ 41.3 million. The Steelers started 11-0 this season but lost four of their last five games before Sunday night’s playoff flop.
Roethlisberger shot for 501 yards with four touchdowns and four interceptions while the Steelers tried to get rid of a 28-0 deficit in the first quarter against the Browns.
“It’s totally possible,” said veteran defensive side Cam Heyward when asked if the Steelers could be totally different next season.
“I could have gone next year. I don’t know what to expect. We are in unfamiliar territory, to say the least. Changes must be made. “