After a few turbulent weeks, it’s official – Ben Roethlisberger will be back with the Steelers in 2021.
The team announced that they have signed the 39-year-old to a new deal on their official website Thursday afternoon. Roethlisberger’s original $41.25 million cap hit was lowered by more than $15 million, according to multiple reports, as he took a $5 million pay cut with four voidable years on the deal through 2025.
“We are excited we were able to come to an agreement with Ben Roethlisberger on a new contract for him to return to the Steelers in 2021,” GM Kevin Colbert said in a statement. “We know that Ben can still play at a high level and do special things for this team. Our goal remains the same – to put together a roster that will compete for another championship. We are happy that Ben will be one of our leaders to help us accomplish that goal.”
The team sounded ready to move on from Roethlisberger in February, when Colbert said he was the quarterback “as we sit here today” and that they had to “look into the situation.”
It appears the team has restructured his deal, and the two-time Super Bowl champion will look to build on a season where he accounted for 3,803 yards, 33 TDs and 10 interceptions.
“It is my greatest honor to be a Pittsburgh Steeler and give my all for this organization,” Roethlisberger said in the statement. “I am grateful to be at this stage of my career and more than happy to adjust my contract in a way that best helps the team to address other players who are so vital to our success. I love this game and love to compete, and I believe in this team and my ability to deliver when called upon. It all starts with great preparation and I am ready to go.”