Back in March, Pittsburgh Steelers placed the franchise tag on their star running back Le’Veon Bell for a second straight year. Still, both parties are working hard to get a long-term deal done, and 26-year-old All-Pro now gave an update about the contract talks. Bell was optimistic about the situation and hinted that he and the Steelers are getting closer to making a deal.
“Obviously, the people in the organization try to do what’s best for them, and I’m trying to do what’s best for me,” – said Bell during his appearance on NFL Network’s Top 100 broadcast. “We’re working on it. We’re a lot closer than we were last year at this time. That’s what I’m happy about. None of that matters if we don’t get it done. Hopefully, we’ll try to get something done. That’s what I’m looking forward to. I got confidence we’ll get it done. I want to do it.“
Le’Veon Bell, who earned $12.12 million on last year’s tag, would earn $14.5 million on this year’s tag, but he has stated numerous times that he prefers a long-term deal even if that mean’s signing with another team.
Bell decided to miss the Steelers training camp in 2017 in order to protest against the tag, and on several occasions hinted that he might do the same this year as well. But, that isn’t something he would gladly do.
“I don’t want to have … what happened last year,” – said Bell. “If it came down to it, then I’ve got to do what I’ve gotta do, take my stand and protect myself. But I don’t want to have to do that. I want to go to camp and play for the Steelers long-term.“
In 2017 Le’Veon Bell had another exceptional season, rushing for 1,291 yards and nine touchdowns. He also added 655 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns.
