Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger defends his weight, blames the beard

Ben Roethlisberger says he has not gained any weight.

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In a recent interview with Steelers beat writer Ron Cook, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger addressed a number of issues including his recovery, minicamps and of yes, his supposed weight gain. Roethlisberger offered an update on his weight and a rather clever explanation.

“I’ve heard people say I’m fat, and that just blows my mind. I’m lighter and in better shape, than I was in either of the past two years,” Roethlisberger said. “I haven’t stopped working out. I normally don’t work out in the offseason, but I’ve been doing everything five days a week with my trainer.”

“I guess it’s my beard that makes me look heavier. I must have five pounds in that, I know. But I’m not overweight.”

Roethlisberger took his fitness regimen up two years ago, so it only makes sense he continued it while on IR. Fans of other teams love to take shots at Roethlisberger but even at 38 years old continues to improve and remains one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL.

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