Roethlisberger '110 percent committed' to Steelers after flirting with retirement

Ben Roethlisberger wants the Steelers and their fans to know his mind is focused solely on helping Pittsburgh win.

The 35-year-old flirted with retirement this offseason before confirming in April he'd return for the 2017 season. After Pittsburgh's first OTA session of the year Tuesday, Roethlisberger emphasized his commitment to the team.

"I'm here - I'm here on Day 1," Roethlisberger said, according to Chris Adamski of the Tribune-Review. "You see me out here taking every rep I'm supposed to take and then some - I actually took some of the rookies' today. I'm 110 percent committed, like I said I was."

The star quarterback cited health concerns over playing in the NFL at his age when he initially spoke about potentially walking away from football.

While some speculated Roethlisberger never really considering retiring, former Steelers teammate Willie Colon said he seriously thought about it. Asked if Colon's view was correct, Roethlisberger responded with a smile, "What did you think, I was lying?"

Pressed on what caused him to return, Roethlisberger said, "You know what guys, honestly, it doesn't even matter.

"I'm happy to be back with the team. I love this city, I love these guys, I love being out here. Football is a passion of mine, it's what I do and what I love to do."