Roethlisberger intends to honor 3 years left on Steelers contract

You have not seen the last of Ben Roethlisberger.

Though the Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback has been ruled out for the rest of the 2019 season due to an elbow injury that requires surgery, the 37-year-old doesn't plan to retire. Instead, he'll play out the remainder of his contract.

"The Steelers committed three years to me this offseason and I fully intend to honor my contract and reward them with championship-level play," Roethlisberger said in a statement released on Monday.

Big Ben signed a two-year, $68-million extension in April that will keep him with Pittsburgh through the 2021 season.

For now, 2018 third-round draft pick Mason Rudolph will lead the Steelers' offense. But Roethlisberger hopes to return to his starting job after recovering from his injury.

"I will do all I can to support Mason and the team this season to help win games. I love this game, my teammates, the Steelers organization and fans, and I feel in my heart I have a lot left to give," said the 16-year veteran.