After choosing to sit out the 2018/19 season, Le’Veon Bell aims to get a $17 million a year contract next season with at least $45 million in guaranteed money, NFL insider Ian Rapoport said on Sunday.
“He wanted $17 million from the Steelers last year,” Rapoport said. “A new year, a higher (salary) cap, he wants more than $17 million. Heavy in the guaranteed money, from what I’m told, seeking more than $45 million in guarantees.”
Bell reportedly wants a long-term contract, probably a 5-year contract that promises over $80 million.
“He could potentially look for a five-year, $85 million deal. Consider the fact that it could be front-loaded, he may actually get the $20 million-plus over maybe the first two years that he wants,” Rapoport added.
The Steelers have the power to match any offers the 26-year-old receives. But considering they refused to make any guaranteed money promises, there is a chance they could let Bell move to a new city.
Bell hasn’t confirmed any of the reports but that won’t stop speculations of where he will go next. With him sitting out the whole season, debates will continue to center on whether the running back will attract any big contracts.
At the moment, the New York Jets, the Detroit Lions, Houston, and the San Francisco 49ers are reportedly interested in making offers to Bell.
