As investigators in Georgia prepare to release new information regarding the investigation of sexual assault charges made against Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers president Art Rooney II has addressed the matter.
“All of us in the Steelers family are concerned about the recent incident involving Ben Roethlisberger in Georgia,” Rooney said. “We cannot comment on any of the specifics until law enforcement’s investigation is concluded. Certainly, we will continue to closely monitor the situation.”
The message is a bit stronger than the usual “we do not comment on pending legal matters,” and it makes us wonder whether the Steelers are beginning to tire of Roethlisberger’s antics.
Meanwhile, we can’t help but wonder whether the team or the league might take swift and decisive action if Roethlisberger ultimately is indicted on sexual assault charges. The indefinite suspension of quarterback Mike Vick occurred not when he pleaded guilty to dogfighting charges, but when he was indicted on federal conspiracy charges relating to gambling and dogfighting.
Either way, there’s a chance that the filing of charges against Roethlisberger could have a much more significant impact on his career than anyone currently realizes. And that’s why attorney Ed Garland will be doing everything he can to keep Roethlisberger from being charged.