Ben Roethlisberger's Written Statement: Big Ben Won't Fight Suspension

On Monday, Ben Roethlisberger issued his first public statement since being investigated for an alleged sexual assault on March 5.  Though no charges came out of the police investigation, the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback was suspended six games by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. 

In response to his suspension, Roethlisberger acknowledged that he will not appeal the mandated six-game suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy that will sit him down for the first six games of the 2010 season. 

Roethlisberger also recognized his personal shortcomings in the statement and took ownership of his actions, saying in his press release:

"The commissioner's decision to suspend me speaks clearly that more is expected of me.  I am accountable for the consequences of my actions.  Though I have committed no crime, I regret that I have fallen short of the values instilled in me by my family.  I will not appeal the suspension and will comply with what is asked of me—and more."

Roethlisberger's suspension could be reduced to four games due to the behavior counseling that Goodell ordered the quarterback to undergo during his suspension. Additionally, Roethlisberger is barred from all team activities until his suspension is over.

"Missing games will be devastating for me.  I am sorry to let down my teammates and the entire Steelers fan base.  I am disappointed that I have reached this point and will not put myself in this situation again."

"I appreciate the opportunities that I have been given in my life and will make the necessary improvements," Roethlisberger said in his statement.