Roethlisberger leaning toward return in 2017

Exhale, Steeler nation.

It's growing increasingly likely the Pittsburgh Steelers will have their franchise quarterback when they next take the field.

Ben Roethlisberger said in January he would evaluate his future in the offseason, and at the time, he wouldn't commit to playing in the 2017 season. While speaking at a conference Friday, the veteran of 13 seasons was asked if he planned to play with the Steelers in the upcoming campaign.

"I'm leaning towards it," Roethlisberger responded, according to Dale Lolley of the Observer-Reporter.

It was widely believed that Roethlisberger wouldn't retire, since he has three years remaining on a contract that will pay him a base salary of $12 million each season. Big Ben has taken a beating throughout his career, however, prompting a need to assess his physical state.

The Steelers reached the AFC title game in 2016, falling just short of a trip to the Super Bowl. Their roster features some of the league's best individual players, making Pittsburgh a popular pick to contend again in 2017.