In a recent episode of his podcast, “Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger,” former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger expressed deep concern over the NFL’s scheduling, particularly highlighting the challenges faced by players during the holiday season. He criticized the league for prioritizing revenue over player well-being, emphasizing the physical toll of playing multiple games in a short span. Roethlisberger remarked, “It’s miserable… It just shows that it’s all about money and this is a way that they can make more money… It’s not fair for the players.”
Reflecting on his 18-year tenure with the Steelers, Roethlisberger acknowledged the physical and mental demands of the game. He pointed out that the league’s decisions often overlook the players’ need for adequate recovery time, especially during periods with condensed schedules. He stated, “You’re going to make guys play the most violent game in the world, arguably, three games in [11] days… There’s no time for your body to get healthy and rest.”
Roethlisberger’s comments also touched upon the broader implications of such scheduling, including the impact on players’ personal lives during the holidays. He expressed empathy for current players, noting the difficulty of balancing professional commitments with family time during festive periods. “The holidays, you want to be home with your … ,” he added.
This isn’t the first time Roethlisberger has been candid about issues affecting the team and the league. Following a playoff loss to the Cleveland Browns in January 2021, he was seen delivering an emotional apology to his longtime center, Maurkice Pouncey, taking responsibility for the team’s shortcomings.
Throughout his career, Roethlisberger has been a central figure in both the successes and challenges of the Steelers. His leadership on the field led to multiple Super Bowl appearances and victories. However, the team also faced internal conflicts, notably during the 2018 season, which was marred by disputes involving key players like Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell. These incidents highlighted tensions within the organization and underscored the complexities of team dynamics.
In his retirement, Roethlisberger continues to be a vocal advocate for player welfare, using his platform to shed light on issues that impact athletes both on and off the field. His recent remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing conversation about the balance between the commercial interests of professional sports leagues and the health and well-being of their players.
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