Report: Steelers, Roethlisberger to Meet Next Week to Discuss Contract, Future

Pittsburgh Steelers brass and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger are reportedly meeting next week to discuss his future and contract situation, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

Fowler went on to report that the two sides have taken some time apart since the disappointing end to the 2020 season, likely providing Roethlisberger the necessary time to mull over if he wants to return for another year.

Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers are expected to meet some time next week to discuss his future and contract, per source. Both sides took some time away after the season. Roethlisberger wants to return for an 18th NFL season but his $41M cap hit must be addressed.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 4, 2021

Roethlisberger confirmed his desire to return and willingness to significantly restructure his contract to The Athletic’s Ed Bouchette last week.

His $41 million cap hit for 2021 is an albatross to say the least, and a significant deterrent to the Steelers resigning their own impending free agents or adding talent this offseason.

After suffering a season-ending injury a two years ago, Roethlisberger had an up-and-down 2020 campaign. He passed for 3,803 yards and 33 touchdowns with ten interceptions, but his play dipped drastically over the final quarter of the season.

Roethlisberger will be a 39-year-old when the 2021 season kicks off.