Despite their best efforts, the Pittsburgh Steelers and star running back Le’Veon Bell were unable to come to terms on a long-term deal by the Monday deadline. As a result, Bell’s agent says this will most likely be his last season in Pittsburgh.
Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown was asked by Josina Anderson of ESPN about his All-Pro teammate shortly after the news broke about Bell. Brown is understanding of the whole situation and says he will welcome Bell back when he returns to the team.
“To each his own,” Brown said. “I know he’s there to take care of his business. Welcome him when he comes and excited to move forward in 2018.”
Since he has no long-term deal in place, Bell will most likely sit out training camp. He could possibly even decide to sit out half the season, as ESPN insider Adam Schefter believes.
Brown was also asked what Bell will likely do to avoid another slow start like the one he had after last year’s holdout.
“I think he’ll be pissed off.” Brown said of Bell.” Extremely motivated. Super hungry. Crazy conditioning. And ready to show why he deserves to be paid like the best.”
Brown may not be too far off with this take. In his statement to Steelers fans after he and the team couldn't come to terms on a deal, Bell says 2018 was going to be his “best season to date.” If this really is going to be his last year in Pittsburgh, he's apparently planning to leave on a high.
After his slow start last year, Bell eventually got going as he finished with 1,946 total yards from scrimmage on 406 touches. If the Steelers can get anything close to that from a potentially “pissed-off” Bell in his farewell season, they’ll be more than satisfied.
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