Another NFL offseason marks another offseason the Pittsburgh Steelers have made the choice to prohibit their Pro Bowl running back LeVeon Bell from entering the free agent market. Bell, drafted in the 2nd round of the 2013 NFL draft, has received the franchise tag in each of the last two seasons.
Bell is considered by some to be the best running back in the NFL. He has caught the attention of the league with his unique running style, often coming to a complete stop shortly after receiving a handoff. The running back then patiently waits for his blockers to open a hole before accelerating through.
Bell is one of the most elusive backs in the league and also one of the most versatile. His unique ability as a runner and receiver makes him one of the most feared dual threats in the game.
In 2017, Bell, at the conclusion of his rookie contract, was tagged by the Steelers for 12.1 million dollars. The Steelers and Bell did not come to an agreement on a long-term contract, as it was reported that Bell turned down a long-term deal that would have paid 30 million in 2017 and 2018 alone. He did not sign the tag until shortly before the start of the 2017 season, missing all organized team activities and training camp.
This year, Bell has once again been tagged by Pittsburgh, this time for 14.5 million. Pittsburgh has stated its desire for Bell to remain with the organization for the foreseeable future, but contract talks have stalled. Publicly releasing a rap record, he stated a demand for an average annual salary of 17 million.
Recently, Bell has stated that he will not sign for less than the tag amount, and will not report until right before the start of the season again.
Bell’s position is that he wants to reset the market for the running back position, especially for a back of his caliber, a multi-dimensional threat at the top of the league at his position. At the current tag number, his salary is more than 3 million, which exceeds the next highest back.
What are your thoughts? Leave a comment below.
I didn't see what he said. What did he say?
Well, you see what he said about LeBron and the Lakers.