The Facts: Like most everyone else, Roethlisberger was surprised when the Steelers drafted QB Mason Rudolph in the third round last Friday. Unlike others, he does not see Rudolph as his successor in a year or two. That’s because Roethlisberger, 36, believes he will play another three to five years and has told management and his coaches as much. “I plan on playing for three to five more years," he said, "depending on how the line goes and staying healthy, if I can stay healthy."

Diehards Line:The Post-Gazette reported at the end of last season that Roethlisberger told teammates he wanted to play “at least” three more seasons. This is the first time publicly he said he wants to go as many as five, which would have him playing at age 41, the same age Tom Brady will be this season. The Steelers had no plans to draft a quarterback, but general manager Kevin Colbert called it a “pretty easy” decision to select Rudolph in the third round because they had him rated with the group of quarterbacks who were drafted in the first round last week. Roethlisberger made his sixth Pro Bowl last season and became the first QB in history to have three 500-yard passing games. After a slower start, he helped the Steelers to a 13-3 record and threw for 469 yards, five touchdowns and one interception in a 45-42 playoff loss to Jacksonville. ... For what it's worth, Roethlisberger also expressed surprise that the Steelers traded wide receiver Martavis Bryant but understood and was happy to see them add rookie wide receiver James Washington in the second round.