The Pittsburgh Steelers and Le’Veon Bell remain in a Stalemate

PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 14: Le'Veon Bell
PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 14: Le'Veon Bell /
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The Le’Veon Bell and Pittsburgh Steelers appear nowhere close to coming to an agreement on a long-term deal.

It wasn’t a major surprise when the Pittsburgh Steelers used the franchise tag on Le’Veon Bell for a 2nd straight year. Pittsburgh is using the franchise tag exactly how it was intended. They are keeping a key player on the roster while protecting their long-term interests.

However, this situations is less than ideal for Bell. He’s looking for more security and to be paid based on his performance. It appears that the negotiations are going to be tabled for the time being.

Bell has been one of better, if not the best, running backs in the NFL. His ability to contribute as both a runner and pass catcher makes him a major matchup problem. He plays a huge role in the success of the Steelers offense.

The concern for the Steelers surrounds a few situations where Bell’s availability was questionable. He has missed time due to off-field incidents as well as injuries. The injury concern only grows with touches.

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It will be interesting to see how Bell handles the latest developments.

He appears unlikely to report to training camp. It’s even possible that he pushes his holdout into the regular season.

The Steelers need to start planning for life without Bell. They won’t be able to afford franchise tagging him for a third straight year and long-term negotiations have bore no fruit.

Pittsburgh could use the 2018 NFL Draft to find their future at the position.

It’ll be nearly impossible to find someone on Bell’s level, but a combination of players could ease the loss.

Someone like USC’s Ronald Jones would be a strong option based on his receiving and running skills.

Pittsburgh could go with a more powerful running like LSU’s Derrius Guice or Alabama’s Bo Scarbrough.