The drama behind Le’Veon Bell is finally over with the running back reportedly set to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers during Week 7. This development officially answers questions on the future of the 26-year-old, including the previous word that the Steelers were actively shopping Bell.
The San Francisco 49ers were reportedly one of the team to express interest in Bell, Ninersnation said. Aside from the 49ers, the New York Jets and the Philadelphia Eagles likewise made explanatory calls but nothing really developed beyond that.
With plenty of questions in the air, Bell finally ended all speculations tied up to his future when he told ESPN that he would be playing football in 2018 and does not expect to be traded. Also, he hopes to remain with the Steelers once his franchise tag is over.
Bell is said to be staying away from the team right now and plans to report by Week 7, the bye week of the Steelers. This means that the 2013 NFL second-round pick will remain unavailable when Pittsburgh faces the Atlanta Falcons and the Cincinnati Bengals. Unless something new develops, he is expected to be back in uniform when the Steelers face the Cleveland Browns on Oct. 28.
By then, the Steelers will have their Triple Bs back together. Bell reunites with Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown, a triumvirate that can hopefully boost the team’s campaign. They are currently 1-2-1 following a loss to the Baltimore Ravens last Sunday, the NY Post said.
Before completing his return, Bell may need to initially sign his $14.5 million franchise tag before taking the field. All that should fall into place once he feels that he is ready for the wear and tear of playing pro football once more.
It remains to be seen if Bell can blend in with his teammates upon his return. He is aware that his decision to miss some games will be costly, including some of his fans and some goodwill.
“A lot of people call me selfish but I’m really not. I’m doing it for guys behind me or guys who don’t understand what’s going on in the business of football,” he said.
He clarifies that despite critics speculating that he may sit out the entire season, it was never an option. Bell said that he wants to play for the love of the game and to remind others what he can do.
With a long-term contract in mind, Bell still hopes he can retire as a Steeler once re-negotiations for a new pact comes his way.
