A remorseful Ben Roethlisberger has apologised and says he will not appeal his six-game ban by the NFL.
Quarterback sorry for actions leading to six-game suspension
A remorseful Ben Roethlisberger says he will not appeal his six-game ban by the NFL, while the two-time Super Bowl winner apologised to the Pittsburgh Steelers for his off-field actions.
Roethlisberger was banned by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell for violating the league's personal conduct policy after being accused of sexually assaulting a college student.
No charges were brought against the 28-year-old, but Goodell still feels Roethlisberger needed to be brought into line for his actions.
Roethlisberger is also being sued by a woman accusing him of rape and, although again no charges have been brought, Goodell feels the quarterback needs to avoid the situations he puts himself in.
The man himself has now spoken for the first time and accepts he needs to be more of a role model, and expressed his remorse at his actions.
Accountable
"The commissioner's decision to suspend me speaks clearly that more is expected of me," Roethlisberger said in a statement on the team's website.
"I am accountable for the consequences of my actions. Though I have committed no crime, I regret that I have fallen short of the values instilled in me by my family.
"I will not appeal the suspension and will comply with what is asked of me - and more."
Roethlisberger will also be under behavioural evaluation and could have his ban reduced or increased depending on his cooperation.
He cannot participate in any off-season team activities until he is assessed by medical professionals, but he promised he will comply fully with Goodell's wishes in order to get back on the field as soon as possible.
Devastating
"Missing games will be devastating for me," said Roethlisberger. "I am sorry to let down my team mates and the entire Steelers fan base.
"I am disappointed that I have reached this point and will not put myself in this situation again.
"I appreciate the opportunities that I have been given in my life and will make the necessary improvements."
Roethlisberger led the Steelers to the Super Bowl title twice in four years, in 2006 and 2009, and starred in particular in the second win when finding Santonio Holmes with the winning pass late in the game.
Reports have suggested the team were keen on trading Roethlisberger but his ban meant that no team wanted to take a change, and he will sit out as Byron Leftwich has been brought back to the team.
