Steelers: Ben Roethlisberger almost played for a different team in 2022
"Big Ben" Roethlisberger will forever go down as a Steelers legend. A two-time Super Bowl champion, Ben was the heart and soul of all things black and gold during his 18-year tenure. But what if I told you there was a world where Roethlisberger returned last season, just for a different team? Could you imagine? […]
"Big Ben" Roethlisberger will forever go down as a Steelers legend.
A two-time Super Bowl champion, Ben was the heart and soul of all things black and gold during his 18-year tenure.
But what if I told you there was a world where Roethlisberger returned last season, just for a different team?
Could you imagine?
The man who embodied the steel city for nearly two decades, suddenly turning California cool and leading the 49ers to an NFC championship game or perhaps beyond.
Don't worry, you don't need to pinch yourself, this nightmare never happened. However, even Roethlisberger admitted he thought about it.
During an interview with Mark Madden on 105.9 The X, returning to football came up, and Ben threw everyone for a loop.
When discussing the interest he received from San Francisco, Roethlisberger said the following:
"They were, I think, reaching out maybe just to gauge my interest," Roethlisberger said. "I had discussions. I'd be lying if I didn't say there was a small part of me that was intrigued. I could still do it and prove to people that I could still play. At the end of the day, I just can't see myself in anything other than black and gold."
Take a deep breath Steelers fans, that last sentence proves that it was all a facade.
The six-time Pro Bowler always called Pittsburgh home, and even when he was healthy and able to fill in, he stayed loyal to the Steelers faithful.
That doesn't mean the decision wasn't incredibly difficult.
You don't become an NFL rookie of the year, six-time Pro Bowler, two-time Super Bowl champion, and a franchise leading passer if you lack competitiveness.
And the 49ers were in a ready-made situation. Ben could have stepped in and just guided the ship to a potential third ring.
But it seems Ben is enjoying the retired life, especially given the history of brutal hits he often absorbed.
"I love waking up in the morning and not having issues with my knees and shoulders and elbows," said Roethlisberger.
Nothing more than a radio talking point, "Big Ben" will forever bleed black and gold.
