Steelers: Kevin Colbert’s future directly linked to Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement

Steelers GM Kevin Colbert is back on a one-year deal that could mean he eventually decides to retire when Ben Roethlisberger does the same.

The Pittsburgh Steelers were able to restructure Ben Roethlisberger’s contract this offseason to ensure he could return and the team would actually have some money available to help improve the roster.

The mastermind of the move is none other than Steelers GM Kevin Colbert. The veteran executive has been with the franchise since 2000 and is now 64 years old ahead of the 2021 season.

One potential storyline to watch is how Colbert’s NFL future is tied to that of Roethlisberger. NFL Network reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala seems to believe it is possible Colbert and his quarterback both retire following the 2021 season.

Steelers: Kevin Colbert tied to Ben Roethlisberger

Colbert was officially the team’s director of football operations back in 2004 when Ben Roethlisberger was drafted with the No. 11 overall pick. The duo has won two Super Bowls since then, and been to one more.

The GM, as Kinkhabwala mentions, is now back on a one-year deal through next year’s NFL Draft. Being on a year-to-year basis means he can evaluate how he feels about moving forward in his position.

An ideal scenario for everyone involved would be the Steelers winning the Super Bowl. Roethlisberger and Colbert could retire on top as three-time champions. Obviously, the situation is not so simple.

The Steelers clearly only want one more year of Roethlisberger and if they do fall short of winning it all, Colbert will have to figure out if he wants to stick around for a new era of Pittsburgh football. His contract situation means he has plenty of flexibility to do what he things is best for him and his family.