Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had the worst playoff performance of his career in Sunday night's loss to the Cleveland Browns, throwing four interceptions and allowing Pittsburgh to fall behind early and never really have a chance at competing. The poor showing has caused many to wonder if the 38-year-old quarterback has played his last game in the NFL, but Roethlisberger said after the game that he wasn't thinking about that yet.
"It will start between me and God," he said after the game. "A lot of praying. I still have a year left on my contract. I hope the Steelers want me back if that’s the way we decide to go."
As Roethlisberger noted, he does still have a year left on his contract and there is certainly a financial incentive for him to play one more year, as he is set to make a whopping $41 million next season. However, even if he decides he does want to play, the real question might be if the Steelers want him back. Roethlisberger is not getting any younger and while cutting him would mean a $22 million dead cap hit, Pittsburgh may decide it's worth it if it gives the team the chance to figure out its next quarterback.
But as bad as Roethlisberger played Sunday night, he still managed to lead the 12-4 Steelers to the playoffs while once again winning the AFC North. So while he may not be competing for his third Lombardi Trophy, don't be surprised if the Steelers let their beloved quarterback give it one last try before calling it a career.
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