Pittsburgh Steelers star running back Le'Veon Bell made his return to the practice field on Monday after officially ending his holdout last Friday. He signed his tender earlier today.

Following his first practice session with the team, Bell told Aditi Kinkhabwala of ESPN that he was “a little winded” from the on-field work, but stated he will ready for the season opener on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.

Article Continues Below
More Pittsburgh Steelers News
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin answers questions from the medianduring the NFL Annual League Meeting at The Breakers.
Mike Tomlin’s leadership put into question by Steelers legendSteve Silverman ·
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin looks on in the second quarter against the Baltimore Ravens in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium.
Steelers rumors: NFL Insider hints at Mike Tomlin’s firing amid desperationBenedetto Vitale ·
Jan 11, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens (14) reacts after a catch against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
George Pickens replaced by Steelers star at Pittsburgh youth camp he bailed onBen Strauss ·
One mystery player in the middle, Aaron Rodgers, Alex Highsmith around him, Pittsburgh Steelers logo in the background
1 perfect Pittsburgh Steelers move to fill out roster before 2025 training campEnzo Flojo ·
steelers, steelers trade, pittsburgh steelers, cordarrelle patterson
1 obvious Pittsburgh Steelers trade candidate entering 2025 training campGarrett Kerman ·
Dec 15, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) warms up before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
DK Metcalf a ‘big reason’ Aaron Rodgers signed with the SteelersMike Gianakos ·

This was expected given that Bell missed the last several weeks of practice, as well as the physicality that it entails. However, the more practice time he gets under his belt, the better game shape he will be in, which should erase any concern that he won't be prepared for the regular season.

It may lead to a lighter workload for the first week or two, but it shouldn't prevent him from being the workhorse that the Steelers are hoping to depend heavily upon. When healthy, Bell has proven to be arguably the most talented running back in the league with his unique blend as a highly effective rusher and receiver out of the backfield.

The 25-year old has plenty to play for, as he will be taking the field on a one-year franchise tender as he hopes to work out a long-term deal with the Steelers next summer.