Ben Roethlisberger Reflects on Retirement and Accepts New Role as Family Man

In a recent appearance on the Steven Weathercroft podcast on YouTube, former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger reflected on his transition from professional football to family life. Roethlisberger, who spent his entire 18-year career with the Steelers, discussed how he came to terms with retiring from the game and the satisfaction he finds in his current role as a father and husband.

Roethlisberger noted that while there were initially some tense dynamics between him and the Steelers regarding his retirement, those feelings have subsided. He expressed contentment with his decision to leave the field, attributing part of this acceptance to retiring on his own terms rather than being forced out through trades or cuts. «I knew it was my last season,» Roethlisberger said. «I got to play that last game at home at Heinz Field against Cleveland on Monday night, where I knew it was my last home game going into it.»

The transition away from the game was also made easier by the changing locker room dynamics in his final season. Roethlisberger mentioned that many of his longtime teammates, with whom he had built strong bonds, had already left the team. «I think the next closest guy in age to me was like 14 years,» he explained, highlighting the generational gap that made it difficult for him to connect with the newer players.

Despite the initial struggle with retirement, Roethlisberger recognized his body’s signals that it was time to step away. «It’s hard to connect with guys,» he remarked, noting the physical and interpersonal challenges of continuing in the NFL. «My body’s ready to be done,» Roethlisberger acknowledged, making peace with the decision to retire.

Since stepping away from professional football, Roethlisberger has immersed himself in his family life, focusing on his children and their athletic pursuits. This shift has been fulfilling, but he admitted to missing the thrill of leading a team during tense game moments. «Fourth quarter, two minutes to go. Lights are on? I’d love to have the ball right now,» he said, reflecting on the excitement of game-defining plays.

Roethlisberger’s acceptance of his new role and his satisfaction in his personal life reflect a successful transition from his celebrated football career to life beyond the sport. While he misses certain aspects of the game, he values the opportunity to be more present for his family.