Big Ben thankful to take knee at Heinz Field 'one last time'

Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports

Teary Ben Roethlisberger thankful to take victory formation knee at Heinz Field 'one last time'

By Adam Stites | Last updated 1/4/22

Ben Roethlisberger didn't have a strong performance against the Cleveland Browns in what appears to have been his last game at Heinz Field, but the Pittsburgh Steelers came away with the win and he told ESPN's Lisa Salters that was more than enough.

Roethlisberger, 39, completed just 24 of his 46 passes for 123 yards with one touchdown and one interception. After the game, he kept his helmet on throughout his interview with Salters and for a lap around the stadium to appreciate an ovation from Pittsburgh fans.

"It's funny because it's probably not the way you'd want it other than the win and that's all that really matters," Roethlisberger said. "That's kind of been the story of my career. It's not always pretty, but we find a way."

An emotional Ben Roethlisberger on his final game in Pittsburgh.

(via @ESPN) pic.twitter.com/lT898HjDeE
— NFL (@NFL) January 4, 2022

The Steelers found a way with a stellar defensive performance, finishing with nine sacks and two interceptions against the Browns' Baker Mayfield. The final interception gave Roethlisberger the chance to come out for one final kneel down.

"I didn't think I was going to take the field again, but it's the best play in football, when you're an offensive player, to take a knee. So I'm glad I got to do it one last time."

Roethlisberger has been hesitant to "speak in 'definites' or 'guarantees,'" but had publicly said the Monday Night Football game would likely be his last in Pittsburgh. His acknowledgement that he took a knee "one last time" is further evidence that he does indeed plan on retiring in the offseason.

More must-reads: