Ex-Steelers CB Steven Nelson Blames Ben Roethlisberger for Team's Post-2021 Struggles

Former Steelers CB Steven Nelson has publicly blamed Ben Roethlisberger for the team's struggles since his 2021 retirement, asserting Roethlisberger's contract dictated roster decisions and prevented keeping a strong 2019 defense. Nelson claims he was asked to take a pay cut for "Big Ben," who was "declining." However, it's noted Roethlisberger voluntarily reduced his 2021 salary by $5M, lowering the cap hit by over $15M to aid team competitiveness. His final 2019 extension was $68M after leading the NFL with 5,129 passing yards.