Ben Roethlisberger signs new contract with Steelers for 2021 season

Ben Roethlisberger will be back for another year in Pittsburgh.

The Steelers announced Thursday that the 39-year-old quarterback signed a one-year deal for the 2021 season, ending speculation surrounding whether Roethlisberger’s time in the Steel City was over.

Roethlisberger missed most of the 2019 campaign with an elbow injury, but he returned in 2020. While his downfield passing and mobility were questioned at times, Roethlisberger still threw for 3,803 yards and 33 touchdowns to go with 10 interceptions. He’s been a staple in Pittsburgh since 2004, winning two Super Bowls in that time and earning six Pro Bowl selections.

“It is my greatest honor to be a Pittsburgh Steeler and give my all for this organization,” Roethlisberger said in a 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.”

Roethlisberger has thrown for 60,348 yards in his career, seventh-most in NFL history. The Steelers ran out to an 11-0 start in 2020 before stumbling, first with a loss to the Washington Football Team.

Then came three more defeats in the final four regular-season games before a first-round playoff exit.

Pittsburgh still believes Roethlisberger has more to give.

“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,” said General Manager and Vice President Kevin Colbert 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.”