Ben Roethlisberger tweeted yesterday that he intends to return to the field for the Steelers next year. ESPN’s Chris Mortenson last week said that Big Ben “had some doubt” about coming back, but after wishing everyone a merry Christmas in his first tweet, Roethlisberger quickly followed up with, “P.S. Contrary to recent reports out there about my football future and my ‘uncertainty’ about playing again, I am working hard and am more determined than ever to come back stronger and better than ever next year!”
To make the playoffs, the 8-7 Steelers need to beat Baltimore on Sunday and have the Titans lose to the Texans. Starting cornerback Steven Nelson was added to the injury report yesterday, with a groin injury. He did not practice as the team went through a 90-minute workout. James Connor and Maurkice Pouncey did not practice and several veterans were given the day off. Pouncey has already been ruled out for Sunday with a knee injury. B.J. Finney will start at center for the Steelers. James Connor’s status is still uncertain.
While the dates and times are unknown, the Steelers know who they will be playing in 2020 with the exception of one game. At home, the Steelers will play the Texans, Colts, Eagles and Redskins, plus AFC North opponents Ravens, Bengals and Browns. On the road, they will play the Cowboys, Bills, Giants, Titans and Jaguars, plus the division foes. The final home opponent will be either the Raiders or Broncos and will be determined after Sunday’s outcomes.
