Roethlisberger won't commit to playing in 2017, will 'consider all options'

After 13 grueling seasons in the NFL, Ben Roethlisberger could be considering retirement.

The Pittsburgh Steelers star quarterback said Tuesday that he wasn't ready to fully commit to returning next season and would evaluate the decision with his family following a loss to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game.

"I'm going to take this offseason to evaluate, to consider all options," Roethlisberger said on 93.7 The Fan. "To consider health, and family and things like that, and just kind of take some time away to evaluate next season, if there's going to be a next season."

When pressed on the matter, the 34-year-old said, "I'm going to take some time and evaluate with my family and just do a lot of praying about it and make sure it's the right thing for me and my family."

While Roethlisberger backed off his comments slightly in subsequent answers, he did add that he was at a stage of his career where it's prudent to evaluate his health after every season in order to walk away from the game healthy.

"Injuries are always a key," Roethlisberger said. "Head injuries are always a big thing. I feel very blessed and thankful that my line was as good as they were this year."

If the two-time Super Bowl winner was to walk away, it would be devastating for a Steelers team that looks set to remain a contender for the foreseeable future.

While Roethlisberger didn't enjoy his best season, his prime years may not yet be behind him.

In his 13 seasons, the veteran pivot has only played a full 16-game season three times. He missed two contests this campaign due to an MCL injury.