NFL reduces Ben Roethlisberger’s suspension to four games

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The suspension of Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been reduced from six games to four by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, a move that was widely anticipated.

Goodell suspended the star quarterback this offseason under the league’s personal-conduct policy following a sexual-assault accusation against Roethlisberger. The commissioner had said he would consider reducing the six-game suspension if the player adhered to a league-mandated counseling program and stayed out of trouble. Goodell recently said Roethlisberger had exceeded those requirements.

According to NFL spokesman Greg Aiello, Goodell met with Roethlisberger on Friday and informed him of the reduced sentence, contingent on the player’s continued adherence to the counseling program and no further conduct violations.

Roethlisberger must stay away from the Steelers during his suspension but can return in week 5, the team’s bye week. He is eligible to return to action for the Oct. 17 game against Cleveland.

-- Sam Farmer