Ben Roethlisberger, affectionately known as “Big Ben,” recently wrapped up a remarkable 18-year NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers. As one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in league history, Roethlisberger left giant shoes to fill in the Steel City. But the QB isn’t spending retirement on tee times and binge-watching — he’s keeping busy with meaningful work off the field.
Following his final season in 2021, the future Hall of Famer dropped a hint about how he might be spending his leisure time going forward.
“First and foremost, I need to thank the Lord for all the many blessings he has bestowed on me,” he said upon announcing his gridiron departure. “To my wife Ashley, our children Benjamin, Baylee, and Bodie, you lift and inspire me and give my life purpose. I’m so thankful for your love and support. I love you so much. To my parents and sister, every step of the way your support and love has driven me to be the best and never give up.”
So it’s not a stretch to guess No. 7 is going to relish spending time with his No. 1s — his family.
An outspoken Christian, Roethlisberger has indicated he wants to get more involved with church activities and volunteer work, including the Roethlisberger Family Foundation.
“I think my faith has played a huge role in my commitment to philanthropy and community service and missions work,” he explained. “I realize that it’s not mine but it’s been given to me by the Lord and so I’m supposed to do everything I can to help give back and to help grow his kingdom and support the less fortunate and so that’s what we try and do and what our foundation is trying to do.”
Roethlisberger also looks to share his firsthand knowledge and experiences by mentoring young players. Last year, he picked up a clipboard and a playbook to serve as an assistant coach to the 9- and 10-year-olds playing for the Quaker Valley Fighting Quakers in Pennsylvania.
On top of mentoring, could a seat behind the analyst’s desk be in Roethlisberger’s future? He made guest appearances on NFL studio shows while still playing, displaying his charisma and insights. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him land more consistent TV gigs going forward, especially considering he already hosts the popular podcast “Footbahlin with Ben Roethlisberger.”
But no matter how Ben Roethlisberger chooses to spend his golden years (he’ll turn a wizened 42 on March 2), it looks like he’ll continue to leverage his platform and resources to support important causes.
“I think as professional athletes we have a duty to give back to the community that has given so much to us. We have been blessed as athletes and put on a pedestal and so it’s great for us as athletes to be able to use that pedestal and use our recognition to give back just a little bit of what has been given to us.”
For Steelers fans, it’s the end of an era with Roethlisberger hanging up his jersey. But it’s also the start of an exciting new chapter, as one of football’s all-time greats puts his energy into serving his family, community, and others. Don’t expect Roethlisberger to be sitting idle — he’s sure to approach retirement with the same passion that made him a Pittsburgh icon.
