The-Hogs.net - Washington Football Discussion, Redskins to Commanders Era

Posted: **Thu Dec 16, 2004 1:05 am**

Steelers RB Bettis thinking about retiring

NFL.com wire reports

PITTSBURGH (Dec. 15, 2004) -- Jerome Bettis is thinking about retiring.

The Pittsburgh Steelers running back said his health -- not whether the Steelers win the Super Bowl -- will determine whether he plays in 2005. Bettis missed significant playing time in 2001 and 2002 with groin and knee injuries, but hasn't missed a game since.

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Bettis, the NFL's No. 6 career rusher with 13,037 yards, has flourished as a part-time running back the past two seasons.

He ran for 811 yards in 2003 despite backing up Amos Zereoue for six games and has 647 yards and a career-high 12 touchdowns this season, including four consecutive 100-yard games while replacing the injured Duce Staley.

"I'm not getting any younger," said Bettis, who will be 33 in February. "Every time we win it means a lot more because it could be the last one."

Bettis isn't thinking this might be his last chance to win a Super Bowl. He reached the AFC championship game during the 1997 and 2001 seasons, but the Steelers lost at home each time.

"No, I don't worry about it," he said. "If it is, it is. I'm not going to be the sentimental guy to cry after every game. It might not be. I'm not going to worry about it."

AP NEWS
The Associated Press News Service

http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/PIT/8002610

Posted: **Thu Dec 16, 2004 8:58 am**

The bus can still get it done, I think he will most likely play for another season anyway HTTR

Posted: **Thu Dec 16, 2004 10:16 am**

Maybe he will retire and then we can lure him out of retirement for short yardage plays. Not a big sign old guys for too much money fan, but he has shown he's still got it.

Posted: **Thu Dec 16, 2004 11:40 am**

I would like to have him as a short-yardage back. That would be real Gibbs football.