Welcome back, Big Ben... sort of.

Ben Roethlisberger back at practice

Big Ben Roethlisberger took a step out of the doghouse today as the NFL lifted its ban partially, allowing the Steelers' quarterback to work out with the team. However, that doesn't necessarily mean that this is the first move in cutting his six-game suspension.

"The commissioner will continue to monitor Roethlisberger's progress as he begins the next phase of his recommended plan, and (Goodell) will meet with Roethlisberger again at an appropriate time," an official statement from the NFL said.

Much ado about nothing?

Now, Roethlisberger may be a dope and he definitely needs to get his act together. But a six-game suspension for what? For an accusation, that's what. I know the NFL is trying to get its image together, but come on guys.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are set at +1200 to win the 2011 Super Bowl.

Update: Ben Roethlisberger's Suspension

Big Ben takes first baby step

Ben Roethlisberger, suspended six games by the NFL late last month for violating the league’s code of conduct policy, has completed the first round of a series of mandated evaluations in an attempt to get back on the field with his teammates.

Don’t hold your breath though, Steelers fans.

NFL commissioner Roger Godell is going to take his time with this one, waiting for more information (and possibly more tests) before he allows Roethlisberger to take part in any team activities. It may seem like a hard stand, considering Roethlisberger hasn’t been convicted of anything, but it’s the right decision. Roethlisberger has had a reputation of dragging the NFL brand through the mud for a while now, so maybe this is what he needs to get on the straight-and-narrow.
NFL players can’t control what’s reported about them, but they can control their actions and who they’re associating with. Goodell has this one right.
Let Big Ben sit in the corner for a while until he learns how to act like an adult.