Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger taken off COVID-19 list, activated for Sunday’s game

PITTSBURGH — Big Ben is back and ready to play.

>> Read more trending news

The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Saturday that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had been taken off COVID-19 protocols and will be added to the team’s 53-man roster, NFL.com reported.

Roethlisberger, who tested positive for COVID-19 last Saturday, will fly separately to Los Angeles and is expected to start when the Steelers (5-3-1) face the Chargers (5-4-1) on Sunday night. The rest of the team boarded a plane for California earlier Saturday, WPXI reported.

The roster move was also confirmed in a tweet by Steelers spokesperson Burt Lauten.

Roethlisberger, 39, had to have two negative COVID-19 tests before he could rejoin the team, WPXI reported.

Mason Rudolph started in Roethlisberger’s place last week in the Steelers’ 16-16 tie against winless Detroit (0-8-1). He completed 30 of 50 passes for 242 yards and a touchdown. He also threw an interception as the Lions halted the Steelers’ four-game winning streak.

>> Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger placed on COVID-19 list, won’t play vs. Lions

In eight starts this season, Roethlisberger has thrown for 1,986 yards and 10 touchdowns. In 18 seasons, Roethlisberger has thrown for 62,334 yards and 406 touchdowns.

More coronavirus pandemic coverage:

>> Coronavirus: How long between exposure to the virus and the start of symptoms?

>> What are your chances of coming into contact with someone who has COVID-19? This tool will tell you

>> How to not let coronavirus pandemic fatigue set in, battle back if it does

©2021 Cox Media Group