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Former Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger Considered Unretiring for 49ers

The Pittsburgh Steelers legend could have ended his career elsewhere.

PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers fans nearly got some very surprising news last season regarding future Hall of Fame quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. According to the former Pro Bowler, a comeback was close in 2022 - but not in Pittsburgh. 

During an appearance with Mark Madden on 105.9 The X, Roethlisberger said the San Francisco 49ers called about him signing, and he was listening. 

"They were, I think, reaching out maybe just to gauge my interest,” Roethlisberger said. "I had discussions. … I’d be lying if I didn’t say there was a small part of me that was intrigued. I could still do it and prove to people that I could still play. At the end of the day, I just can’t see myself in anything other than black and gold."

The 49ers ultimately stuck with Mr. Irrelevant Brock Purdy after Jimmy Garoppolo went down and Trey Lance was on Injured Reserve, and Roethlisberger stayed retired, which he doesn't regret. 

I love waking up in the morning and not having issues with my knees and shoulders and elbows," Roethlisberger said. 

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