Playing through rib issue

Roethlisberger, who does not carry an official injury designation heading into Sunday's game against the Patriots, reportedly suffered cracked ribs in Week 14's loss to the Raiders, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: In the wake of his rib issue, which the Steelers ' official site referred to as contusions, Roethlisberger did not practice Wednesday, but was able to work fully both Thursday and Friday. As a result, his Week 15 status isn't in doubt, but the QB figures to contend with and play through a degree of discomfort until his ribs are completely healed.

Practices fully Thursday

Roethlisberger (ribs) practiced fully Thursday.

Analysis: Roethlisberger understandably dealt with some soreness after sustaining rib contusions in Week 14, but his status for Sunday's game against the Patriots is not in doubt. On the heels of three straight losses, the Steelers head into the weekend at 7-5-1, a context that makes Sunday's contest critical with regard to the team's playoff hopes. While it's known that Roethlisberger will be a go against New England, the status of top running back James Conner (ankle) remains in question.

Won't practice Wednesday

Roethlisberger (ribs) won't participate in Wednesday's practice, Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: The Steelers have routinely given the quarterback Wednesdays off this season mainly for maintenance purposes, but he could benefit from the rest more than usual after coach Mike Tomlin revealed Roethlisberger was dealing with multiple rib contusions in the aftermath of Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Raiders. Roethlisberger noted that the injury has presented some soreness that has made sleeping difficult the past couple of days, but it's nothing that will prevent him from suiting up Week 15 against…read more

Gets precautionary MRI

Roethlisberger said Tuesday on his weekly radio show that he required an MRI for the rib injury he picked up in Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Raiders but reiterated he doesn't expect to miss time, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com. "I'll be on the field [Week 15 against the Patriots], that's all that matters."

Analysis: Roethlisberger missed 19 of the Steelers' 60 offensive plays in the Week 14 loss after team trainers decided to hold him out for a spell when initial X-rays on the rib injury he sustained were inconclusive, per Fowler. The Steelers ultimately signed off on Roethlisberger's return to action, with the signal-caller giving the team a four-point lead on a touchdown pass to JuJu Smith-Schuster with 2:55 remaining in the contest before Oakland answered for the game-winning score with 21 seconds left.…read more

Expecting to play in Week 15

Roethlisberger (ribs) said following Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Raiders that "he assumes he will be good to go for (Week 15)," Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger exited Sunday's game in the first half after injuring his ribs, and he did not take the field for the majority of the second half until the Raiders scored a touchdown with just over five minutes left in the contest. Roethlisberger quickly led the Steelers down the field to reclaim the lead, which the Pittsburgh defense relinquished with just 21 seconds to go. Roethlisberger then threw the ball on a successful hook-and-ladder play to put the Steelers in position to tie, but kicker…read more

Returns to game

Roethlisberger (ribs) returned to Sunday's game against the Raiders in the fourth quarter, Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger was held out for nearly the entire second half because of his injury, but he returned in an effort to lead the Steelers back late in the contest.

Exits Sunday's game

Roethlisberger was forced out of Sunday's game against the Raiders with a rib injury.

Analysis: With Roethlisberger -- who took a big hit at the end of the first half -- on the sideline, Josh Dobbs has taken over at QB for the Steelers. Prior to his exit from Sunday's contest, Roethlisberger had completed 18 of 22 passes for 164 yards and a TD.

Drops second straight game

Roethlisberger completed 29 of 45 passes for 281 yards with two touchdowns and an interception during Sunday's 33-30 loss to the Chargers.

Analysis: The Steelers jumped out to a 23-7 lead before the half but could have gone in to the locker room leading by more had Roethlisberger not been intercepted by safety Derwin James on a pass intended for Vance McDonald deep in Chargers territory. Big Ben has now thrown six interceptions in his last three games, losing the last two. He'll look to return to his winning ways in Week 14 against Oakland, which has allowed 28 passing touchdowns and has just nine interceptions this season.

Massive output in losing effort

Roethlisberger completed 41 of 56 attempts, accounting for 462 passing yards, one touchdown and two interceptions during Sunday's 24-17 loss to the Broncos. He added two rushes for 18 yards on the ground as well.

Analysis: The veteran quarterback had a solid fantasy outing despite loose care for the football, exceeding 20 points (standard scoring) for the sixth time over his past seven games but committing a fate-clinching interception in the end zone when down a touchdown with under 1:30 to go in regulation. Pittsburgh has thrown the ball more than any other team in the NFL (43.3 attempts per game), a key reason Roethlisberger sits fewer than 20 yards behind Matt Ryan for the league lead in passing yardage…read more

Leads Week 11 comeback

Roethlisberger completed 27 of 47 passes for 314 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions, while rushing twice for one yard and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-16 win over Jacksonville.

Analysis: The Jacksonville defense had Roethlisberger's number early, as he was 8-for-19 with 53 yards and two interceptions in a first half that ended with the Jaguars leading 9-0. Roethlisberger was able to uncork a nice deep ball late in the third quarter, resulting in a 78-yard Antonio Brown touchdown. He added an 11-yard score to Vance McDonald with 2:28 left in the fourth, then got the ball over the goal line himself with five seconds left, just after a would-be interception was nullified by a…read more

Fires five touchdowns in blowout win

Roethlisberger completed 22 of 25 passes for 328 yards with five touchdowns and no interceptions in the Steelers' 52-21 win over the Panthers on Thursday. He also rushed three times for 27 yards and fumbled once but recovered.

Analysis: Roethlisberger shook off a minor finger injury to post his fifth 300-yard game of the season and complete a season-best 88.0 percent of his throws. Big Ben finished with a perfect 158.3 rating for the contest as well, and he spread the wealth by connecting with JuJu Smith-Schuster, Antonio Brown, Vance McDonald, Jesse James and Jaylen Samuels for his scores. The 36-year-old now boasts a sparking 21:7 TD:INT through nine games, and he's thrown just one pick in the last four contests. He'll face…read more

Cleared to play Thursday night

Roethlisberger (finger) doesn't carry an injury designation into Thursday's game against the Panthers.

Analysis: Roethlisberger will thus continue to manage and work through a fractured finger on his left (non-throwing) hand when the Steelers -- winners of four straight -- take on the 6-2 Panthers. Meanwhile, Roethlisberger is coming off a Week 9 effort in which he shrugged off his aches and pains to complete 28 of 47 passes for 270 yards and two scores while adding another touchdown on the ground in a 23-16 win in Baltimore.

Listed as non-participant again

Roethlisberger (finger) was listed as non-participant in Tuesday's practice.

Analysis: Roethlisberger continues to nurse a fractured finger on his left (non-throwing) hand, but it didn't prevent him from delivering a quality outing Sunday in the Steelers' road win over the Ravens. The signal-caller played turnover-free football for just the third time in eight games this season, completing 28 of 47 passes for 270 yards and two scores while picking up a rushing touchdown on one of his two carries. The Steelers have listed his non-participation the last two days as a result of the…read more

Listed on Week 10 injury report

Roethlisberger (finger) was listed as a non-participant in Monday's estimated practice report.

Analysis: The Steelers didn't actually practice Monday, but the report cites a finger issue for Roethlisberger. The QB did come out of Sunday's 23-16 win over Baltimore a little banged up, and Roethlisberger acknowledged getting the wind knocked out of him during that contest. That said, there's little doubt that he'll be a go Thursday night against the Panthers.

Throws two TDs, runs for another

Roethlisberger completed 28 of 47 passes for 270 yards and two touchdowns while adding four yards and a touchdown on two rushing attempts in Sunday's 23-16 win over Baltimore.

Analysis: After touchdown passes of seven and six yards to James Connor and Antonio Brown, respectively, in the first half, Roethlisberger called his own number from one yard out in the third quarter. He appeared to injure his right shoulder or possibly just had the wind knocked out of him after getting tackled awkwardly on a scramble early in the fourth quarter, but he was able to return after missing just one snap. The veteran quarterback has posted a 15:4 TD:INT through the air over his last seven…read more

May wear splint on non-throwing hand

Roethlisberger, who is dealing with a fractured index finger on his left (non-throwing) hand, may wear a splint during Sunday's game against the Ravens, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The quarterback's availability for the weekend isn't a concern after he practiced Thursday and Friday while sporting a glove on the injured hand, but Roethlisberger could opt for a splint if he thinks the finger requires extra protection. While the finger issue could make ball security somewhat more challenging, Roethlisberger's output in the passing game likely won't be impacted while he manages the injury. Instead, the matchup against one of the league's top defenses is the more pressing…read more

Practices fully Thursday

Roethlisberger (finger) practiced fully Thursday.

Analysis: Roethlisberger sat out practice Wednesday, which has normally been a weekly off day for the QB. He is, however, dealing with a fractured index finger on his left hand that he suffered in Week 8's win over the Browns. It's an issue he played through in that contest, with coach Mike Tomlin noting Wednesday that he didn't anticipate the injury impacting Roethlisberger's availability for Sunday's game against the Ravens.

Misses practice Wednesday

Roethlisberger (finger) didn't participate in practice Wednesday.

Analysis: In addition to the fractured index finger on his left (non-throwing) hand he sustained in the Week 8 win over the Browns, Roethlisberger's absence from practice was also attributed to a coach's decision. Wednesdays have normally been off days for the quarterback for maintenance purposes, but the finger issue will provide an added wrinkle to the Steelers' practice reports this week. Fortunately for Roethlisberger, it doesn't seem to be a major concern, as coach Mike Tomlin noted that the injury…read more

Suffers broken finger

Coach Mike Tomlin said Roethlisberger fractured the index finger on his left hand during Sunday's 33-18 win against the Browns, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Tomlin was unable to hone in on the nature of the injury Monday, but subsequent tests have confirmed that Roethlisberger has a fracture in the finger. Despite playing through it in the second half Sunday, Roethlisberger put up 257 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. While he's certain to be present on Steelers injury reports this week, there's no worry about Roethlisberger sitting out this Sunday at Baltimore.

Sustains finger injury

Coach Mike Tomlin noted after Sunday's 33-18 win over the Browns that Roethlisberger has an "index finger injury on his left (non-throwing) hand," Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Per the report, the QB hurt his finger in the second quarter of the game, but the issue didn't prevent Roethlisberger from carrying on and completing 24 of 36 passes for 257 yards, with two TDs and a pick. We doubt that Roethlisberger's Week 9 status is in any danger, but it remains to be seen if his practice participation in advance on next Sunday's game against the Ravens will be impacted at all.

Leads offense to third consecutive victory

Roethlisberger completed 24 of 36 passes for 257 yards, two touchdowns and an interception during Sunday's 33-18 win over Cleveland. He also ran twice for six yards and had one fumble, which he recovered.

Analysis: Big Ben connected with Antonio Brown for both scores and a 14-6 halftime lead. He then let the ground game and defense take over to give Pittsburgh a three-game winning streak. In seven games this season, Roethlisberger has thrown for 2,290 yards (327.0 yards per game) with a 14:7 TD:INT. He'll look to continue Pittsburgh's winning streak against a tough Baltimore defense in Week 9. Earlier this season, he threw for 274 yards with one touchdown and one interception in a 26-14 loss to the Ravens.

Throws for 369 yards in win

Roethlisberger completed 32 of 46 passes for 369 yards and a touchdown while also passing for a two-point conversion in Sunday's 28-21 win over the Bengals.

Analysis: After James Conner converted a pair of one-yard touchdowns in the first half, Roethlisberger finally recorded a passing score by hitting Antonio Brown on a 31-yard slant with 10 seconds left. Even before his game-winning toss to Brown, Roethlisberger had been racking up yardage and topped 300 for the fourth time in six games. He'll get to rest his 36-year-old bones in Week 7 with Pittsburgh on bye.

Downplays elbow issue

Roethlisberger mentioned Tuesday that an elbow injury has impacted his throwing motion, but he downplayed the significance of the issue Wednesday, Chris Adamski of The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports. "Ah, it's fine," Roethlisberger said. "I don't even need to talk about it. It's good."

Analysis: Roethlisberger hurt his elbow back in Week 1, but he hasn't been listed on the injury report since Week 2 and is currently on pace for career-high marks for both passing yards and touchdowns. His absence from practice on Wednesdays has become the new norm, with the Steelers listing him as a "coach's decision" rather than referencing an injury on their official report. It doesn't seem like anything to worry about, considering the team does the same thing for a few other veterans. In any case,…read more

Throws for trio of scores in win

Roethlisberger completed 19 of 29 passes for 250 yards with three touchdowns and one interception in the Steelers' 41-17 win over the Falcons on Sunday. He also rushed twice for 16 yards.

Analysis: It was an efficient performance for Big Ben, who got some help from his defense for a change in what turned out to be surprising blowout victory. The 15-year veteran connected with both Antonio Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster for touchdowns, with one of the former's two scores qualifying as Roethlisberger's longest completion of the game (47 yards). It was a much-needed win for the Steelers, who evened their wins and losses at two apiece despite Roethlisberger's passing yardage total being his…read more

Struggles against Ravens

Roethlisberger completed 27 of 47 pass attempts for 274 yards with one touchdown, one interception and one two-point conversion during Sunday's 26-14 loss to the Ravens.

Analysis: The Steelers offense, again hampered by the absence of Le'Veon Bell (contract dispute), was unable to get much going against a Ravens defense that entered the game having allowed a league-low 5.1 yards per pass attempt. Not only was Pittsburgh shut out the entire second half, but Roethlisberger only gained 50 yards through the air in those final two quarters. Despite the lack of success, the quarterback is well positioned for a bounce-back performance Week 5, when the Steelers host a…read more

Earns first win this season with three touchdowns

Roethlisberger completed 30 of 38 passes for 353 yards with three touchdowns and one interception in Monday's 30-27 win over the Buccaneers. He also lost one yard on four carries.

Analysis: After a slow start on their first two possessions, Roethlisberger got hot, with all three touchdowns coming in the first half. Despite the 1-1-1 record, Big Ben is having an outstanding season, completing 92 of 139 passes for 1,140 yards with seven touchdowns and four interceptions. On pace for over 6,000 yards, he'll look to keep it going Week 4 against a banged-up Baltimore defense. In his last game against the Ravens, a 39-38 win, Roethlisberger threw for 506 yards and two touchdowns.

Throws for 452 yards

Roethlisberger (elbow) completed 39 of 60 passes for 452 yards and three touchdowns and added a touchdown and nine yards on two carries during Sunday's 42-37 loss to Kansas City.

Analysis: Big Ben wasn't ready to call football a young man's game. After Kansas City's sophomore slinger Patrick Mahomes threw three touchdowns in the first quarter, Roethlisberger responded with three of his own in the second quarter. Roethlisberger also brought the game within a score late after lumbering to the right corner of the end zone for a three-yard touchdown run. Roethlisberger had an uncharacteristically rough game against Cleveland last week. Sunday was a rebound, but it's unlikely that…read more

Cleared to start Week 2

Roethlisberger (elbow) is active for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger injured his right elbow in overtime of the Steelers' Week 1 tie with the Browns, rendering him a non-participant in practices Wednesday and Thursday before he turned in a full session Friday. The Steelers were apparently satisfied with how Roethlisberger threw the ball during that practice, so he shouldn't be too hindered by the injury while he returns to the field. After a disastrous five-turnover performance in Week 1, Roethlisberger will get a nice bounce-back opportunity this…read more

Expected to play Sunday

Roethlisberger (elbow) is expected to play in the Steelers' Week 2 game against the Chiefs, Dianna Russini of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Although Roethlisberger was a full participant at Friday's practice, he was still given a questionable status for Sunday's game. It looks like the team was just erring on the side of caution with the designation, as he is fully expected to play at this point. Josh Dobbs would be in line to replace him under center should he ultimately suffer a setback.

Practices fully, but listed as questionable

Though listed as a full practice participant Friday, Roethlisberger (right elbow) is marked questionable for Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

Analysis: Per Jermey Fowler of ESPN.com, the expectation is that Roethlisberger will play Sunday, but the questionable designation makes it imperative for those inclined to use the QB in Week 2 lineups to confirm his status in advance of Sunday's 1:00 PM ET kickoff. Josh Dobbs, who returned to his normal backup workload Friday after taking first-team reps Wednesday and Thursday, is on hand in the event that the Steelers surprisingly elect to sit Roethlisberger this weekend.

Practices fully Friday

Coach Mike Tomlin relayed that Roethlisberger (elbow) was a full practice participant Friday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Meanwhile, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com, Josh Dobbs, who took first-team QB reps Wednesday and Thursday, returned to his normal practice workload Friday, which sets the stage for Roethlisberger to start Sunday's game against the Chiefs.

Spotted at practice Friday

Roethlisberger (right elbow) was present for practice Friday, Chris Adamski of TribLive.com reports.

Analysis: We'll await the Steelers' final injury report of the week, which will clarify Roethlisberger's level of participation and official Week 2 designation. Chances are, the QB will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, but his presence on the field Friday is a positive indicator on that front.

Misses second straight practice

Roethlisberger (elbow) missed practice again Thursday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger previously said that he doesn't expect his bruised right elbow to sideline him for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, but his return to practice in any capacity Friday would certainly boost our optimism on that front. With Roethlisberger sidelined for the second consecutive day, Chris Adamski of TribLive.com relays that Josh Dobbs took the bulk of the Steelers' first-team QB reps Thursday.

Dealing with bruised elbow

Roethlisberger doesn't expect his bruised right elbow to sideline him for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The quarterback didn't practice Wednesday, but it's not unusual for him to get maintenance days during the season, particularly when he's banged up. The Steelers will update Roethlisberger's status again Thursday, but so long as he practices by the end of the week, he should be ready to play come Sunday.

Injury clarified as bruised elbow

Roethlisberger admitted Wednesday that he's dealing with a bruised right elbow, but wouldn't confirm if he underwent an MRI earlier in the week, Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged Tuesday that Roethlisberger's elbow injury might limit the quarterback early on during the Steelers' Week 2 preparations, but it's not believed the 36-year-old is in any serious danger of missing Sunday's tilt with the Chiefs. That said, the injury may at least partially explain Roethlisberger's rough showing in the season-opening tie with the Browns, during which he turned the ball over five times while completing only 23 of 41 passes. A home matchup against…read more

Nursing minor elbow injury

Roethlisberger sustained a minor elbow injury in Sunday's 21-21 tie against the Browns and could be limited in practices this week, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: The injury -- in addition to less-than-ideal weather in Cleveland -- may have contributed to Roethlisberger's horrid showing in the season opener, during which he completed only 23 of 41 passes, threw three interceptions, and lost two fumbles. Head coach Mike Tomlin seemed to downplay any concern about the signal-caller's health, indicating that he often prefers to limit Roethlisberger's reps early in weeks to afford the younger quarterbacks on the roster additional snaps with the first-team…read more

Plagued by turnovers versus Browns

Roethlisberger completed 23 of 41 pass attempts for 335 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions Sunday against the Browns. He also carried three times for 16 yards and lost a pair of fumbles in the 21-21 tie.

Analysis: Roethlisberger was plagued by turnovers on the day, including three interceptions deep in Cleveland territory and fumbles on back-to-back drives in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, his mistakes allowed the Browns to climb back into the game as they ultimately fought for a tie. Roethlisberger notably had excellent support from the ground game sans Le'Veon Bell, meaning his role during his superstar teammate's holdout may not change as much as was previously expected. He'll look to take better…read more

Sharp in preseason debut

Roethlisberger completed 11 of 18 passes for 114 yards and one touchdown during Saturday's preseason game against the Titans.

Analysis: Making his first and probably only appearance of the preseason, Roethlisberger looked sharp and plenty ready for the regular season in his limited action. His day could have been even better had JuJu Smith-Schuster been able to hold on to a pair of passes that went down as drops on the receiver's part, though Roethlisberger also had a couple of miscommunications with tight end Jesse James that were likely more Roethlisberger's fault than James'. Nonetheless, the Steelers offense looked ready to…read more

Expected to see snaps Saturday

Roethlisberger is on track to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Titans, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger had a bit of an injury scare last week, but he's fine after it was determined that he did not suffer a concussion after taking a fall in a practice. Per the report, the 36-year-old QB, who has dropped some weight since last season, "has been a fixture in the weight room over the past month." He's putting in the added work in the hopes of helping to alleviate the sort of joint pain that's occasionally hampered him over the past few seasons. When he's able to keep out of harm's…read more

In line to play next week

Roethlisberger did not suffer a concussion in practice Tuesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger was evaluated by team doctors as part of the NFL's concussion protocol, but subsequently cleared. His absence from Thursday night's preseason game against the Packers was planned and the QB is slated to play next Saturday against the Titans.

No longer in concussion protocol

Roethlisberger was removed from the NFL's concussion protocol Wednesday, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: The Steelers were planning to hold Roethlisberger out of Thursday's preseason game against the Packers in any case, but now that he's medically cleared, the veteran signal-caller could see some snaps in the team's third exhibition game Aug. 25 against the Titans. With Landry Jones also not in line to play this week, the Steelers plan to turn things over Thursday to young quarterbacks Mason Rudolph and Joshua Dobbs.

Travels with team

Roethlisberger (concussion) traveled with the Steelers in advance of Thursday's preseason contest at Green Bay, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger was evaluated under the NFL's concussion protocol after banging his head on the ground at Tuesday's practice, which left him laying on the turf for multiple minutes. Just one day later, though, he got the all clear to travel, indicating he didn't actually enter the protocol. The Steelers likely will be prudent with their starting quarterback and hold him out Thursday, but Wednesday's development opens the door slightly that an appearance is possible.

In concussion protocol

Coach Mike Tomlin relayed that Roethlisberger, who sustained a hit in practice Tuesday, is being evaluated by team doctors as part of the NFL's concussion protocol, Steelers Director of Communications Burt Lauten reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger is thus day-to-day for now and we won't see him in a game before Aug. 25, when the Steelers host the Titans in their third preseason contest.

Exits practice with possible concussion

Roethlisberger was removed from Tuesday's practice, possibly to be evaluated for a concussion, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger appeared to bang his head on the ground during practice, then touched his head a few times while talking with the Steelers' training staff. He's suffered three reported concussions in his pro career, with the most recent coming in November 2015 and not requiring any absences beyond the game in which he suffered the injury. The Steelers were already planning to hold Roethlisberger out for Thursday's preseason game against the Packers.

Not in line to play Thursday

Roethlisberger isn't in line to play Thursday night against the Packers, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: That's nothing unusual, as the Steelers are wisely limiting Roethlisberger's exposure to preseason contact with the grind of the regular season in mind. Meanwhile, backup Landry Jones isn't expected to see a ton of preseason action, which sets the stage for the team to get longer looks at youngsters Mason Rudolph and Josh Dobbs.

Won't play Thursday

Roethlisberger won't play in Thursday's preseason game against the Eagles, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Landry Jones will get the start, while Josh Dobbs and Mason Rudolph figure to get most of the playing time. Roethlisberger seems to be enjoying a healthy training camp, but the same can't be said of his receiving corps, with Antonio Brown (undisclosed), JuJu Smith-Schuster (knee) and Vance McDonald (foot) all missing practice time.

Sits out of practice

Roethlisberger was held out of Friday's practice session, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger was on the field for Friday's practice but wasn't suited up as a participant. He was likely just getting a veteran rest day, as the Steelers haven't given any notice of an injury. There won't be any cause for concern unless Roethlisberger is also held out of practice over the weekend.

Showcasing slimmer physique

Roethlisberger lost a noticeable amount of weight during the offseason, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: While not exactly known for his conditioning, Roethlisberger worked with a nutritionist throughout the offseason to cut sugar and other carbs from his diet. The change falls in line with his comments from early May, when he said he plans to play football for 3-to-5 more seasons so long as the Steelers continue to protect him with a strong offensive line. The 36-year-old quarterback seemed a bit annoyed with the organization's use of a third-round pick on fellow quarterback Mason Rudolph, noting…read more

Hopes to play 3-to-5 more years

Roethlisberger said he plans on playing for 3-to-5 more seasons if both he and his offensive line stay healthy, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Roethlisberger has spent the latter portion of his career playing with a strong offensive line, not to mention the best running back and wideout duo in recent NFL history. The complementary weapons haven't been so consistent, though the Steelers seem to have solved that problem when they drafted JuJu Smith-Schuster at No. 62 overall in 2017. The team did trade Martavis Bryant to Oakland last week, but then replaced him with another wideout late in the second round of the draft (Oklahoma State's…read more

Intends to play beyond 2019

Steelers owner Art Rooney II said Wednesday that Roethlisberger wants to keep playing in the NFL beyond the 2019 season, the final year of his current contract, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: After briefly contemplating retirement last offseason, Roethlisberger was clear about his future following the Steelers' elimination from the postseason in the team's divisional-round loss to the Jaguars. The 35-year-old confirmed shortly after the loss that he would return for the 2018 season, but Rooney's comments take that a step further and imply that the veteran quarterback believes he has multiple years left in him. While that may be wishful thinking on the part of Rooney, Roethlisberger…read more

Plans to play next season

Following Sunday's playoff loss to the Jaguars, Roethlisberger indicated that he plans to play in 2018, ESPN's Katherine Terrell reports. "I don't know about contracts and whose coming back but I know the guys up front are, and that makes it good for me, so I look forward to next year with those guys," Roethlisberger noted Sunday.

Analysis: While the key members of the Steelers offensive line will be back -- which Roethlisberger clearly appreciates -- it remains to be seen what's in store for star running back Le'Veon Bell, who's looking for a big pay day this offseason and doesn't want to play under the team's franchise tag again. Roethlisberger was a healthy scratch in Week 17, but prior to that he made it through the season without missing a game due to injury, throwing for 4,251 yards and generating a 28:14 TD:INT ratio in the…read more

Sets franchise record with five TD passes

Roethlisberger completed 37 of 58 passes for 469 yards, with five touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 45-42 AFC divisional-round loss to Jacksonville. He also ran twice for 16 yards and fumbled once.

Analysis: Heading into this game, the Steelers had gone 8-0 when scoring 25+ points, and Roethlisberger showed no sign of his age (35), throwing a franchise-record five TD passes. However, several failed fourth-down attempts, a costly sack and fumble that was returned for a touchdown, and an absentee defense all conspired to knock Pittsburgh out of the postseason. Roethlisberger hit seven different receivers playing from behind the entire game and almost tossed a sixth score in the final minutes on a…read more

Roethlisberger was inactive (coach's decision) for Sunday's 28-24 win over the Browns, finishing the 2017 season completing 360 of 563 passes for 4,251 yards and 28 touchdowns, with 14 interceptions in 15 games. He also ran 28 times for 47 yards.

Analysis: Roethlisberger was sacked 21 times this season, the most since 2014, so it was not surprising that Pittsburgh opted to give their veteran quarterback the week off. Although under contact until 2020, Roethlisberger has hinted as recently as this past offseason that he might retire, but walking away from more than $21 million per year is not an easy decision. The Steelers and fantasy owners will have to take a wait-and-see approach in terms of Big Ben's future. Only Tom Brady threw for more yards…read more

Officially out Sunday vs. Browns

Roethlisberger (coach's decision) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Browns, Bob Labriola of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: There had been rumblings over the last few days that Roethlisberger would be held out of the regular-season finale, but the team never offered confirmation on that front until releasing its inactive list Sunday. With Roethlisberger in street clothes, Landry Jones will make the fifth NFL start of his career, while rookie Joshua Dobbs acts as the backup quarterback.

Not expected to play Sunday

The Steelers will rest Roethlisberger and a number of key starters Sunday against the Browns, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has been mum regarding how long or if he'll deploy his stars in Week 17, but Rapoport's report was seemingly supported earlier this week by Pittsburgh offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert implying that Roethlisberger and Le'Veon Bell would be held out in preparation for the postseason. The Steelers could claim the No. 1 seed in the AFC with a win and a Patriots loss Sunday, but given the unlikelihood of heavily favored New England dropping a game to the 5-10 Jets, it…read more

Status still uncertain for Week 17

Roethlisberger (non-injury) was held out of practice Friday but doesn't have a designation for Sunday's game versus the Browns.

Analysis: The Steelers haven't outright tipped their hand, but Roethlisberger is expected to join Le'Veon Bell on the sideline as a healthy scratch this weekend, despite the passing title and home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs on the line. Roethlisberger's DNP/limited/DNP practice regimen this week also supports the suspicion that the coaching staff is preparing Landry Jones for a spot start in the season finale. Expect the Steelers to make a decision on Roethlisberger's availability by the…read more

May not play Sunday vs. Browns

Roethlisberger (non-injury related) was listed as a limited participant in Thursday's practice. According to Tim Benz of TribLive.com, Steelers offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert suggested that Roethlisberger won't play Sunday against the Browns, though head coach Mike Tomlin has yet to confirm as much. "Ben's not there [Sunday] so [Cleveland will] get a little taste of [backup quarterback] Landry Jones," Gilbert noted. "We'll have Landry Jones in there. We won't have Ben. Or [Antonio Brown (lower leg)]. Or Le'Veon Bell."

Analysis: Though the Steelers have secured a first-round bye in the AFC playoffs, they could still claim home-field advantage throughout the postseason with a win and a Patriots loss to the Jets in Week 17. With New England a heavy favorite in its game, however, it appears the Steelers may already be conceding a Patriots victory and will instead turn their attention to resting key players Sunday, if Gilbert's comments are to be believed. More information on the status of Roethlisberger -- as well as that…read more

Roethlisberger completed 20 of 29 passes for 226 yards and two touchdowns in Monday's 34-6 win at Houston.

Analysis: Roethlisberger didn't have to do much with Houston's passing game producing fewer than 100 yards, but he did manage to throw touchdowns of five and 18 yards to Justin Hunter and JuJu Smith-Schuster, respectively, before letting backup Landry Jones take the reins late in the fourth quarter. Even without top target Antonio Brown (calf), Roethlisberger should have no trouble carving up the winless Browns next week in a game his team needs to win to have a shot at home-field advantage throughout…read more

Roethlisberger completed 22 of 30 passes for 281 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Patriots. He also rushed three times for 10 yards and fumbled once but recovered.

Analysis: Although Roethlisberger found Martavis Bryant and Eli Rogers for scores, it was a near third touchdown that turned out to be the turning point in the contest. Big Ben appeared to hit Jesse James for a 10-yard score with 28 seconds remaining, but the play was ultimately overturned on replay after it was determined the Steelers' tight end failed to control the ball all the way through the conclusion of the play. Roethlisberger ultimately threw an interception on a pass deflected off the hands of…read more

Roethlisberger completed 44 of 66 passes for 506 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 39-38 victory over the Ravens. He added five rushing yards on one carry.

Analysis: Roethlisberger dazzled in primetime while becoming the first player in league history to record three games with at least 500 yards passing. Although he needed a massive workload to do so -- Roethlisberger averaged just 36.3 attempts per game entering Week 14 -- this performance also came against a stingy Ravens secondary that hadn't allowed a 300-yard passing game all season. On deck for Pittsburgh is a Week 15 matchup with New England when Roethlisberger will face off against a Patriots…read more

Roethlisberger completed 24 of 40 passes for 290 yards, two touchdowns and an interception in Monday night's 23-20 win over the Bengals.

Analysis: Roethlisberger got off to a rough start, throwing an interception on Pittsburgh's opening drive, but rallied to lead the Steelers to a comeback victory in poor weather conditions. While his first touchdown pass came thanks to an odd bit of luck, as a couple Bengals defenders watched Le'Veon Bell scamper down the sideline past them, Roethlisberger's second score came on a six-yard bullet late in the fourth quarter. Along with having won seven straight games, Roethlisberger has thrown at least…read more

Roethlisberger completed 33 of 45 passes for 351 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions during Sunday's 31-28 victory over Green Bay. He added 25 yards rushing on three carries.

Analysis: Roethlisberger has now strung together consecutive four-touchdown performances, which not-so-coincidentally corresponds with Antonio Brown's 313-yard, five-touchdown explosion over the same stretch. Brown ultimately finished with the most impressive stat line of all Steelers receivers Sunday, but Roethlisberger's most-targeted weapon actually turned out to be running back Le'Veon Bell, as the veteran quarterback relied on a steady flow of check-down passes in the second half when the Packers'…read more

Roethlisberger was a full practice participant Wednesday despite feeling under the weather, Mark Kaboly of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Coming off his best performance of the season last week, Roethlisberger apparently is dealing with a minor illness. He wasn't even listed on Wednesday's injury report, and it can be assumed this is a non-issue if he isn't added to the report Thursday. Roethlisberger and the Steelers will face a struggling Packers squad on Sunday Night Football.

Four-touchdown night in win

Roethlisberger completed 30 of 45 passes for 299 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions in Thursday's 40-17 win over the Titans. He also rushed once for 10 yards.

Analysis: Roethlisberger thrived in the no-huddle attack that helped lead to a Week 10 comeback victory over the Colts, firing a 41-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Brown on the Steelers' first possession and rarely letting up until the contest was well in hand. The veteran signal caller only got better as the game went on, going a blistering 20 of 23 for 185 yards with three touchdowns in the second half, two going to Brown and one to tight end Jesse James. Although he fell just short of his second…read more