Ben Roethlisberger calls trade rumors “B.S.”
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) throws a pass during the third quarter of a game against the Buffalo Bills at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won the game 23-10. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
It was reported earlier today by excellent NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport that Pittsburgh Steelers star quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was unhappy with the team, and it is an issue that transcends unhappiness with coaches. Rapoport stated that the Arizona Cardinals could be a potential landing spot for Ben Roethlisberger in the offseason (he would be reunited with former offensive coordinator Bruce Arians and play in a scheme that fits him perfectly), and sources in the Steelers organization told him that the team expects to listen to some more trade offers regarding Big Ben in the offseason.
Immediately after the report was released by Rapoport, Roethlisberger’s agency has done everything possible to refute the report. Now, Roethlisberger is, as expected, refuting the report and did it in one of the strongest ways possible. Just look at the quote below.
“When it comes to wanting to go somewhere else or anything like that, that’s completely unacceptable. It’s one of the most B.S. stories I’ve ever heard. I’m not quitting, and that means in more ways than one. I’m not quitting on anything, this season, this team, these fans. I’m going to give it everything I have. This is home.”
Roethlisberger also referred to himself as a “Pittsburgher”, and this is what you call vehemently protesting a rumor. My belief is that if Roethlisberger were truly angry with the team, the Steelers would speculatively dial up other GMs (especially Steve Keim of the Cardinals) in order to gauge Big Ben’s price. They would see that it definitely isn’t worth it and move on, because no franchise QB is going to get proper trade value these days. Franchise QBs like Roethlisberger don’t grow on trees, and the Steelers know that as well as anybody; it’s a belief that is ingrained in most front office’s minds.
Big Ben isn’t going anywhere, even if he wants to. I’m sure he’s frustrated, but that has more to do with the fact that the Steelers are losing. As long as the Steelers make an effort to boost the defense and offensive line so that this team can compete again with Roethlisberger under center, then things will be perfectly fine going forward. They netted an easy 23-10 victory over the Buffalo Bills today, by the way.
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