NFL Suspends Big Ben
Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger found out on Wednesday how much it cost him to be drunk and stupid:
$1,894,117.64.
That’s how much Roethlisberger will lose in pay if he serves the minimum four-game suspension that was handed to him by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. The league disciplinary action is for six games, but can be dropped to four if Roethlisberger completes mandated counseling that must begin now.
If he Steelers quarterback continues his stupid behavior and doesn’t take the chance being given to him, he would not only miss six games, but would also be suspended during Pittsburgh’s bye week. That would cost him $3,314,705.87.
Basically Roethlisberger has four months to convince a therapist that he’s changed and understands that his behavior towards women and alcohol must change. He has over $1.4 million in motivation to make sure that happens.
At minimum, he will miss the first 25 percent of the Steelers schedule, games against Atlanta, Tennessee, Tampa Bay and Baltimore. After a bye week, Pittsburgh faces Cleveland and Miami.
The Steelers organization was also fined by Goodell, to the tune of $200,000.
In his letter to the quarterback, the Commissioner wrote:
“I recognize that the allegations in Georgia were disputed and that they did not result in criminal charges being filed against you. My decision today is not based on a finding that you violated Georgia law, or on a conclusion that differs from that of the local prosecutor. That said, you are held to a higher standard as an NFL player, and there is nothing about your conduct in Milledgeville that can remotely be described as admirable, responsible, or consistent with either the values of the league or the expectations of our fans …
“Your conduct raises sufficient concerns that I believe effective intervention now is the best step for your personal and professional welfare …
“I believe it is essential that you take full advantage of the resources available to you. My ultimate disposition in this matter will be influenced by the extent to which you do so, what you learn as a result, and a demonstrated commitment to making positive change in your life …
“In your six years in the NFL, you have first thrilled and now disappointed a great many people. I urge you to take full advantage of this opportunity to get your life and career back on track.”
Roethlisberger was banned from taking part in any team activities until he’s evaluated by professionals. Once they give the go ahead, he can return to the team, take part in workouts and practices, even go to training camp and play in the pre-season. But come the opening weekend, he’ll be at home when the Steelers open against the Falcons.
The Pittsburgh Steelers can trade Kansas City Chiefs thier first 2 picks, #18 in the First Round & #52 in the Second Round to move up to KC’s #5 spot and draft Jimmy Clausen. Then the Steelrs can try and Trade Big Ben for a 2nd or 3rd round pick if they are lucky to one of the following team:
Cleveland Browns, Oakland Raiders, Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Arizona Cardinals or the Minnesota Vikings.
All of these teams could use a up grade at QB and Ben’s a good 4 to 5years left in the tank to lead any of these teams to a Super Bowl.
If I was Pioli I would be on the phone right now putting this Bug in their ear.
Why in the world would the Steelers, or anyone else, trade with the Chiefs to draft Clausen? Seattle isn’t likely to take him. Actually, I don’t think the Browns will either.
Maybe it’s just me…but, it seems like Goodell is setting a dangerous precedent here. So now, a mere accusation can get you suspended by the league? Wow. But, it gives me an idea. Right before we play the Colts…I’ll claim that Manning had his way with me against my will. He’ll be suspended…and we should be able to win the game easily.
I am sure the wheels are turning all over the league over this development. One could think of thousands of trade possibilities but I like yours meninred.
you have the same idea as jim, but I would be leveled of a 3-way-trade. Not thats its a bad idea, id just bet ya it wont happen
Mad Chief:
“I’ll claim that Manning had his way with me against my will”
I like that idea, and I will be yr witness to make iron clad. lol
True Red & Gold – this is a very viable trade, my fingers are crossed with hopes it comes true, boy another good 2nd round pick we could use!
Go Chiefs Draft!!!
Roethlisberger was in violation of the NFL’s pesonal conduct policy, thus allowing Goodell to mete out punishment he deems appropriate. Sheriff Goodell is no hombre to challenge!
MenInRed,
Cool. Just never let it be said that I wasn’t willing to “take one” for the team.
We appreciate your dedication to improving the fortunes of the Chiefs, MadChief. While you’re at it, you might just as well accuse Philip Rivers of the same thing!
Mike,
Rivers? Check. He’s not my “type”, really…but hey, anything for the team.
Anyone else? Anybody? I’ll make a list. If an accusation is all it takes nowadays? Easy enough.
“but, it seems like Goodell is setting a dangerous precedent here. So now, a mere accusation can get you suspended by the league?”
I imagine Ben admitted to some of his actions and those actions were deemed improper. I also don’t think the NFL takes kindly to players putting themselves in such a bad position.
Big Ben’s behavior generated a 500+ page police report, not quite as long as “War and Peace” but but still hefty.
Remember Larry Eustachy(sp?), the Iowa State B-Ball coach canned for having drinks with coeds? This is similar in nature but taken several layers further into degradation.
There are probably some who think his behavior is on a part with that of Michael Vick.
He is a pariah. He would have to do something worthy of a Nobel prize to re-establish his creds with the general public.
Can you imagine what somebody like Gloria Allred would do if he were traded to a team in her city?
He’s not worth the headaches he would invariably bring with him.