The Pittsburgh Steelers were unable to close out a deal for Le’Veon Bell to secure his services with the franchise long-term. James Conner has proven to be a great option with Bell out and now likely gone.
While trading him would’ve brought in an asset that could benefit their team now, the Steelers tried and failed to bring him back on the franchise tag. There are a host of NFL teams that could use Bell’s versatility to help them ascend to the next level.
Here are a list of of five teams that have the best shot at signing the All-Pro back with him likely hitting free agency in 2019.
5. Oakland Raiders
Raiders fans were excited when they acquired quarterback guru Jon Gruden to be the team’s new head coach. They have a talented young quarterback in Derek Carr and a tight end in Jared Cook that recorded 9 receptions for 180 yards in Week 1.
Even though they traded Khalil Mack, they are a good all-around team that is just missing a few key pieces. Marshawn Lynch has proven he can still play at an elite level when healthy, but he’s nowhere near the receiving threat Bell is.
The NFL is loosening their restrictions on partnerships with casinos, and the Raiders are moving to Las Vegas in 2020. When Lynch is a free agent next summer, there will be plenty of room for Bell to step in and make the Raiders’ offense even more reputable. There could be opportunities for a big payday in Las Vegas.
