Report: Roethlisberger plans to return in 2021 for 18th season

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger intends to return in 2021 for his 18th season rather than retire, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Roethlisberger is signed through next season, with his deal carrying a cap hit of over $41 million.

Though this season has taken a physical toll on the 38-year-old, he's having too much fun to call it quits, according to Schefter.

Roethlisberger has seemingly reinvented his game following a return from his 2019 elbow surgery. Once known as a deep-ball gunslinger, he's become more reliant on short throws to move the ball downfield this year. Roethlisberger is averaging 6.3 yards per attempt, the lowest mark of his career outside of 2019.

He previously voiced his desire to fulfill his contract instead of retire.

The two-time Super Bowl champion and six-time Pro Bowler has thrown for 3,292 yards with 29 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 13 outings this season. His passer rating of 95 ranks 19th among quarterbacks with at least six games played.