Steelers Injury Report: Ben Roethlisberger’s non-concussion diagnosis great news

It almost seemed as if it were a bad dream.

While following the Pittsburgh Steelers’ final training camp practice at Latrobe High School on Twitter...this came across and sent shock waves not only down my spine, but through the collective Steelers’ fan base:

For a split second, everyone was wondering what the 2018 season would resemble. Sure, fans were excited to see what Mason Rudolph could do as a professional, but no one in their right mind thought he was ready to play now. Despite all the talent the Steelers possess on the offensive side of the football, Roethlisberger is the cornerstone.

The straw which stirs the drink.

Without No. 7, you can kiss the season goodbye.

As more news was brought to light regarding the situation, Roethlisberger didn’t suffer any structural damage, but was entered into the NFL’s concussion protocol. Immediately, fans were worried about the franchise quarterback’s health, considering he has a history of concussions throughout his 15-year career, but they may have been jumping to conclusions a bit.

As it turns out, Roethlisberger was evaluated for a concussion, but was deemed to not have suffered the injury many suggested. This per Joe Rutter of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger went through the protocol, and it was determined he did not have a concussion from the hit he suffered in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ final practice in advance of their preseason game Thursday against the Green Bay Packers.

Coach Mike Tomlin made the announcement before the game to sideline reporter Missi Matthews of Steelers.com.

Roethlisberger accompanied the team to Green Bay, although it was decided he would not play in the game before he was injured in practice Tuesday. Dressed in shorts and a T-shirt, Roethlisberger watched from the sideline.

While many might view this as old news, it should be repeated how tremendous this is for both Roethlisberger and the Steelers.

Roethlisberger has talked about brain injuries being a reason he is leaning towards retiring sooner, rather than later. Also, from a pure football standpoint, Roethlisberger being able to suit up and play in Week 3 of the preseason when the Tennessee Titans come to Heinz Field will help the team stay sharp as the regular season inches closer.

On Saturday, when the Titans come to town, the team should have almost their full allotment of stars of the field for the first time this preseason, if they are healthy. Expect Cameron Heyward, Roethlisberger and Joe Haden to all be on the field helping the Steelers iron out the wrinkles which plagued them in Week 2 vs. the Packers.

Those who might not be available due to injury would be:

Sean Davis (groin)
Vance McDonald (foot)
T.J. Watt (hamstring)
Antonio Brown (quad)

Stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes regarding the black-and-gold as they press on through the preseason prepping for the games which really count.