The Pittsburgh Steelers will have a familiar face under center when the 2021 NFL season kicks off. The team confirmed on Thursday that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger agreed to a new deal with the organization and will remain with the organization for at least one year.
Despite Roethlisberger being already under contract, there were a lot of unknowns surrounding his future. The 39-year-old veteran was set to have one of the biggest cap-hits in the league ($41.2 million), and salary cap-strapped Pittsburgh couldn’t afford to have him back under those conditions.
In order to suit up for the Steelers next season, Roethlisberger agreed to rework his deal and help the team save $15 million in cap space. The new contract reportedly lowers his salary from $19 million to $15 million in 2021 while also converting some of the money into a signing bonus and adding voidable years.
After the news was made official, Roethlisberger said that he was “more than happy” to make an adjustment to his deal and help the team to address other roster needs.
“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,” he added.
Roethlisberger had a solid year in 2020, throwing for 3,803 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He led the Steelers to an 11-0 start of the season and an AFC North title.
After taking care of their QB situation, the Steelers are expected to focus on their free agents. They have 16 players that are set to hit the free agency, including wideout JuJu Smith-Schuster and Pro Bowl linebacker Bud Dupree.
