Big Ben Does Need to ‘Grow Up’

An urgent message for Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger: once again, you’re lucky, now start acting like a professional.  Big Ben is now a perfect 2-for-2 in escaping criminal charges against him for sexual assault cases, all within the last two years (the first case never involved a criminal complaint, only civil).  The latest, at a Capitol City nightclub in Georgia, is sort of a mind-boggler given the details that have come out about the night.  Roethlisberger gave the public a very Tiger Woods-like apology Monday night from the Steelers locker room. Here’s part of his apology:

“I’d like to begin by expressing gratitude for the thorough investigation process in Georgia and the Prosecutor’s decision not to bring charges.  I know without a doubt it is the right conclusion.  I am happy to put this behind me and move forward. I am truly sorry for the disappointment and negative attention I have brought to my family, my teammates and coaches, the Rooneys and the NFL.”

Whether he is guilty or not, this is the second time Big Ben has put himself in a dangerous situation.  This time, it definitely looked like Roethlisberger was in trouble, but due to reasonable doubt, the DA found that there was not enough evidence to pursue to case.  I know in America you’re innocent until proven guilty, and I’m not saying Roethlisberger is guilty, although I must admit the fact that the girl went to the emergency room immediately after the alleged incident only to have a doctor find bruises, bleeding, and DNA is a bit suspect. 

Whatever the case, guilty or not, the DA said it perfectly when he told Big Ben he needs to “grow up.”  The Steelers are too storied a franchise to let this type of thing happen again.  They already proved this week that they aren’t afraid to unload some talent even if it means getting rid of unnecessary luggage too.  That’s not to say Ben Roethlisberger and Santonio Holmes are on the same level, but I think the message has been delivered.  We’ll see if Ben takes it seriously otherwise his stay in Pittsburgh will be short.

Sources:
Ben Roethlisberger issues apology [Yahoo! Sports]
‘Grow up,’ DA tells Roethlisberger while announcing decision not to prosecute rape case [Pittsburgh Post-Gazette]
Photo Credit: ESPN