Ben Roethlisberger: No More Apologies, More Actions

The following is a statement released by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday afternoon from Ben Roethlisberger:

“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.

“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.”

The written statement by Roethlisberger was not much different than the statement he read to the media a couple of weeks ago.

Roethlisberger stated:

“I'm truly sorry for the disappointment and negative attention I brought to my family, my teammates, coaches, the Rooneys and the NFL. 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. And I'm committed to improving and showing everyone my true values.

“I am excited to get back to work with my teammates, and I'm more determined than ever to have a great season. I intend to make my family, friends and Steeler nation proud on all fronts. Thank you. God bless.”

Last July, Roethlisberger was in another situation where he had to issue a statement regarding a civil lawsuit relating to a sexual assault case:

“I have an obligation to our fans, to my teammates, to my coaches and everyone in the organization to remain focused on the Pittsburgh Steelers and I will do that.”

If you are keeping score at home, from 2004 to 2008, Roethlisberger earned two Super Bowl rings.

From 2008 to today, Roethlisberger presented three prepared statements relating to issues in which he brought negative attention to himself and the Steelers organization.

The latest statement is focused on his six-game suspension. Did he even say much?

No, and it should not be expected that Roethlisberger could say much. He is not in position to discuss any details. This statement was simple. He was stating that his actions are not to the standard of the Steelers or of the NFL.

The concern is that he had two incidents in less than a year when he was going to “remain focused on the Pittsburgh Steelers.”

From a fan's perspective, the most important parts of his statement were that he let the fanbase down and that he will not put himself in that kind of situation again.

Roethlisberger has to repair his public image. He has turned off many fans to the point that they think he should be traded or even released. How he conducts himself in public, his interaction with fans, and community service could go a long way.

For much of the fa base, though, Roethlisberger rejoining the lineup and leading the team to wins is all that it will take. Winning cures all.

And winning is what the organization will be looking for as well. There is no doubt that that had to be in the back of Kevin Colbert's (Director of Football Operations) mind when he supported Roethlisberger.

“We can’t defend the behavior or the actions…But we do defend his opportunity to make right. And I think that’s the right thing to do. This guy has helped us win two championships and he’s made some mistakes, but he also deserves the opportunity to rectify those mistakes. I know we stand behind his opportunity to do that.”

As long as Roethlisberger has the support of the Steelers, he will have every opportunity to make right with the team and their fanbase. However, he has to be prepared to have every move he makes scrutinized.

It is time for Roethlisberger to make the most of his second chance and to regain the respect of his owners, coaches, teammates, and fans.

Monday should be the last day that we hear from Roethlisberger until training camp. Apologies mean nothing at this point. As the old saying goes, “Actions speak louder than words.”

It is time that Roethlisberger lets his actions do the talking.