2021 NFL Season Preview: Quarterbacks In The News
With the NFL preseason now in full flight, fans and sports bettors are starting to get a lot of updates on what is going on around the league. As a clear indication that the league is returning to some level of normalcy, most of the current news is focused on quarterbacks and rookies that could make an immediate impact this season. Let’s take a look at a few keys stories.
Will Ben Roethlisberger Be Playing Football With the Steelers Next Year?
At the age of 39, QB Ben Roethlisberger is entering his 18th season as a QB with the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s also the last year on his current contract. Much to the chagrin of Steelers fans, there is a chance thing will be his last season is a Steelers uniform.
This is what Steelers team owner and president Art Rooney II had to say about “Big Ben’s” future: “We’re aware this could be Ben’s last year. We hope it’s a great one. That’s as far as we can go with it right now. Obviously, if this is his last year, then next year we’ll be making decisions on a quarterback, and we’ll address it as the time comes up.”
It’s hard to imagine the Steelers’ sideline without Roethlisberger occupying his post. While Rooney would most likely pony up a two or three-year deal for Ben, there are questions regarding whether or not he will retire. To be clear, Ben starts every season saying “this could be my last.” Yet, he keeps coming back.
For most aging QBs, the decision to retire is usually based on the player’s ability to remain effective on the field. While his effectiveness in 2021 has yet to be determined, Roethlisberger proved he was still effective last year by throwing for 3,803 yards with 33 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Not bad for an old man.
As long as Ben stays healthy and produces this year, he’ll have to weigh his 2022 options in the offseason. Until that time comes, fans can expect Ben to go out and do his job just like he has done for the last 17 years.
Foot Injury to Sideline Colts QB Carson Wentz for up to 12 Weeks
The Indianapolis Colts are back in hot water again at the QB position.
The team’s QB woes started at the end of the 2018 season when All-Pro QB Andrew Luck shocked the football world by announcing his retirement. After using Jacoby Brissett as a temporary solution during the 2019 season, the team went out and signed free agent Philip Rivers to lead the team in 2020. After throwing for 4,169 yards and 24 TDs, Rivers promptly announced his retirement.
Fortunately, the Colts were able to wrestle Carson Wentz away from the Philadelphia Eagles, giving them the marque player than had been looking for to lead the team. Unfortunately, he won’t be wearing a Colts uniform until some point during the second half of the season. Why?
During his 2nd week in camp, he injured his foot during practice. Since the injury occurred to the same foot he has struggled with for several years, he decided it was time to have surgery and get everything fixed at the same time. As a result of his decision, he will likely miss between one and three months of the regular season. This is a huge blow to the Colts and their fans who had high hopes for the season.
Packers QB Aaron Rodgers Will Be Auditioning for a New Job
During the entire offseason, the Green Bay Packers and their star QB Aaron Rodgers were at war with each other. Rodgers wanted to be traded and the Packers said no. After threatening to sit out the season, it looks like Rodgers will be taking his place under center with the Packers.
In a twist of irony, Rodgers will be working hard to help Green Bay win games this year. However, it will be his own interest he is playing for out there on the field. While he is playing for the Packers, he will also be auditioning for possible suitors for next year.