Head coach Mike Tomlin was adamant about some good news regarding running back Le'Veon Bell's contract negotiations. Unfortunately, it does not appear as though he will be able to follow through.

Bell and the Steelers have long been deadlocked on a potential long-term deal. According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, it is not looking like they will come to terms by the July 16th deadline:

Despite Mike Tomlin’s confidence that a deal can be struck by 4 p.m. Monday, it will be challenging for Pittsburgh and Steelers’ franchised RB Le’Veon Bell to reach a long-term contract agreement, per league sources. The two sides came close last year and will keep trying Monday.

This is not the first time Tomlin has taken an optimistic approach to the negotiations. He did the same last year before Pittsburgh was ultimately forced to slap the franchise tag on him. If they cannot come to terms, Bell will play under a second consecutive franchise tag that worth $14.5 million.

The three-time Pro Bowler has made it clear that he intends to be one of the highest-paid offensive players in the NFL and rightfully so. Bell is widely considered the best running back in the league thanks to his versatile skill set out of the backfield. It goes without saying that he is the focal point of the Steelers offense as their lead rusher and second-most productive receiver outside of wideout Antonio Brown. That said, Pittsburgh may have left their star a bit disgruntled after these prolonged negotiations.