Tomlin assuming Roethlisberger will return

Mike Tomlin hasn't addressed the situation with Ben Roethlisberger, but he's moving forward with the belief he will have his franchise quarterback for the 2017 season.

"I am proceeding with that assumption," the Pittsburgh Steelers head coach said Tuesday at the league meetings in Arizona, according to Albert Breer of The MMQB.

Roethlisberger hinted at retirement at the close of the 2016 season, setting off alarm bells across Pittsburgh. He has since said he's "leaning towards" returning for a 15th season, however.