NFL
Le’Veon Bell’s Return Date Has Been Set
According to ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler, Le’Veon Bell is expected to arrive in Pittsburgh during their Week 7 bye week. Another interesting note reported is that Bell intends to play from that point forward. Many thought Bell would fight playing until the Week 10 franchise tender deadline, but arriving during the bye week gives Bell time to acclimate back to football shape.
Le'Veon Bell expects to report to the Steelers during the Week 7 bye, a source told @ESPN. Bell definitely plans to play football for the Steelers this season.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 1, 2018
The Steelers’ Struggles
Although Pittsburgh has done their best to mask Bell’s absence, it is clear this offense struggles without him. While the Steelers rank sixth overall in total yards per game, they are 28th in rushing yards and rushing yards per game.
The offensive balance for Pittsburgh has been non-existent as they have passed on 71% of all offensive plays. While James Conner has done his best to accommodate for Bell, it is clear he cannot carry the load late in games.
Through four games this season James Conner is averaging near 16 carries a game. Conner’s carries also drop the later the game goes as he only has 18 total carries in fourth quarters this season. It is easy to see why Bell is demanding more money as this team is definitely hurting without him.
Steelers certainly could use Le’Veon Bell. Steelers rank last in the NFL in rushing yards per game (43.3) and yards per rush (2.8) since Week 2, and their 19 rushing yards in Week 4 were their fewest in a game since 1970.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 1, 2018
Plans Going Forward
Although the Steelers will gladly welcome Bell back to the field to help their struggling offense, they may still be listening to trade offers. While it is still extremely difficult for a trade to happen this season, it is clear Pittsburgh is looking at every option.
Pittsburgh still is expected to be interested in listening to trade offers for RB Le'Veon Bell, per league sources. Bell now planning to report later this month would not dissuade the Steelers from making a deal that made sense.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 1, 2018
One option that was mentioned is the Steelers now using the transition tag on Bell next season. The transition tag would let Bell seek a big contract on the market, but Pittsburgh could match any deal. This move would give Pittsburgh control of the situation for one more season.
The only drawback would be not receiving compensation if he signs with another team and they do not match. This move would also give the Steelers more time to try and trade the star running back if a long term deal cannot be reached.
From @JFowlerESPN, Steelers told Bell they would place the transition tag on him in 2019. Hold rights to Bell while exploring trade options. #Steelers
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) October 1, 2018
What Will Happen?
With numerous reports going around about Bell’s trade market, it is highly unlikely a deal can get done. With Pittsburgh not getting the value they are seeking, trading Bell for a below average deal would make no sense.
Pittsburgh will get enough value playing Bell this season and getting a third round compensatory pick the following season. Most likely Bell will report Week 7 and finish the season playing for the Steelers. Pittsburgh and Bell will give contract negotiations one last try this offseason before they let him walk or use the transition tag.
One interesting comment Bell made was he is still hopeful he will retire a Steeler. Whether or not Bell’s wishes will come true remains to be seen. One thing is for sure, this offseason will be interesting, and this saga is far from over.
Photo Credit
Featured Image courtesy of KEVIN PIATT
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