Steelers' Rooney: Extension talks with Roethlisberger have already started

Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II followed up his comments from last week regarding quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's contract, saying on Wednesday that extension discussions are already taking place.

"We've already started talking to him and his representative about extending that contract," Rooney said, according to ESPN. "I think Ben has some good years left. I'd still say he's close to being in the prime of his career.

"Now that we're seeing quarterbacks around the league that are playing into their 40s, I'm not sure there's any reason that Ben can't play for several more years. We're looking forward to that."

The 36-year-old has one season remaining on a four-year, $87.4-million extension he signed in 2015. He's set to carry a cap hit of $23.2 million in 2019.

Roethlisberger was a key figure during the Steelers' 9-6-1 season in 2018, completing 67 percent of his passes for 5,129 yards and 34 touchdowns. However, he threw a league-high 16 interceptions.

The six-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion is scheduled to carry the 12th-highest cap hit among quarterbacks next season.

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