Big Ben apologizes, but situation far from over

Ben Roethlisberger apologized to his teammates, family, friends and fans on Monday for the “negative attention” that he brought upon himself and the Steelers. But he’s also ready to move on and put the situation behind him.

If only it were that easy.

Here’s what Big Ben had to say on Monday (via ESPN):

“The prosecutor’s decision not to bring charges, I know without a doubt, is the right conclusion,” said Roethlisberger, who was wearing a red sports shirt and light-colored slacks. “I don’t intend to discuss any details related to the events of Georgia. I’m happy to put this behind me and move forward.”

“I am excited to get back to work with my teammates, and I’m more determined than ever to have a great season,” he said.

“I’m truly sorry for the disappointment and negative attention I brought to my family, my teammates, coaches, [Steelers owners] the Rooneys and the NFL,” Roethlisberger said. “I understand that the opportunities I have been blessed with are a privilege, and much is expected of me as the quarterback of the Pittsburgh Steelers. I absolutely want to be the leader this team deserves, valued in the community and a role model to kids. I have much work to do to earn this trust.”

Roethlisberger isn’t out of the woods yet. He still has to meet with commissioner Roger Goodell this week and after that, he may face punishment from the league. Considering this is the second time he was accused of sexual assault, there’s a possibility that he may be suspended for his actions – even though he wasn’t charged with committing a crime. Then, whether he’s punished by the league or not, the Steelers will decide whether or not to punish him for sullying their image as well.

He may think that the situation is behind him, but it’s not. No charges were brought upon him, but the Steelers are clearly fuming over this incident and they may deliver a message just as they did to Santonio Holmes when they traded him to the Jets on Sunday night for a fifth round pick. The entire Pittsburgh organization is embarrassed by the way Roethlisberger has handled himself the past two offseasons and I would be surprised if they didn’t take action.


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