The upset of the week? The return of Ben Roethlisberger to Steelers practice hasn’t been a huge national story.
The hype will grow next week when Roethlisberger returns for an actual game, although a televised interview with ESPN analyst and Roethlisberger “mentor” Merril Hoge had some attention-grabbing moments.
“There was a time when I was going through all this that I contemplated not playing anymore. I didn’t want to be Big Ben anymore. And I know that’s what goes along with being No. 7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers,” Roethlisberger said on NFL Live. “So part of me, I can admit didn’t want to play anymore. And go coach or do something else.”
Roethlisberger says his love of football and teammates ultimately made it impossible to stay away. It’s easy to see the comments above as a little melodramatic, but that’s not out of character. Give Roethlisberger some credit for being so open since his return and at least trying to sound like he gets “it.”
Roethlisberger went on to express regret for what happened in Milledgeville, Georgia, but had strong words about his legal case.
“I will tell you this. I never have and never will harm a female in the way I was accused. . . . I would never hurt a female like that, never.”