Many rumors have been swirling throughout the offseason in regards to Maurkice Pouncey. There was a report right after the Steelers were eliminated from the 2020 playoffs that Ben Roethlisberger was crying on the bench because Pouncey told him he plans on retiring in the offseason. This is a different tone than what Pouncey had previously said in recent years. He said he would not retire from football until Ben Roethlisberger retires.
Sources are telling Gerry Dulac that Pouncey has told many of his teammates he plans on retiring this offseason. If Pouncey decides to retire it would save the Steelers $8 million in cap space. Also if Maurkice does decide to retire it would force the Steelers to take a center in one of the first two rounds of the 2021 NFL Draft.
It is being reported today by Jim Colony that Big Ben can talk Maurkice Pouncey out of retirement. A change of heart is still possible if Ben Roethlisberger decides to persuade him. If Pouncey feels it is time to retire Ben Roethlisberger should accept the inevitable. Especially with how shaky Pouncey was during the first moments of the Wild Card game against the Browns.
Ben needs to come to the realization that there is life outside of football. The Steelers also need to come to the realization that the longer they continue to kick the can down the road it will take longer to rebuild their organization. If Maurkice Pouncey feels like he is done and needs to retire then Ben Roethlisberger should honor his wishes. In the wise words of Mike Tomlin, the Pittsburgh Steelers do not want any hostages. If your heart isn't into the game of football no longer it is time for you to move on.