Pittsburgh Steelers

Le'Veon Bell returns to practice after signing franchise tender

By Chase Williams
By Chase Williams

Le'Veon Bell practiced for the first time with the Steelers Monday morning at the team’s facility on the South Side.

"I’m happy to be here,” Bell said. “It felt good to be out at practice with my teammates and get ready for the season, get ready for the Super Bowl."

Bell signed his franchise tender of $12.1 million and is full-go for the season opener in Cleveland; however, it's not clear as to how much he will play.

“I’m working hard for 30 carries, whatever it may be – 30 touches, or whether it’s 10 touches,” Bell said. “I’m ready to go out there and get the job done.”

So why did Bell wait so long to report to team headquarters? His health.

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"I wanted to make sure I was prepared and fresh for the season," Bell said. "I don't want to go out there and jeopardize myself getting hurt in camp. Obviously I understand I'm on a one-year deal, so I have to go out there and prepare and play football.

“My rookie year I got hurt in camp, so I didn't even want to deal with it. I wanted to get ready for Game 1, the games that count and go out there and try to win a Super Bowl."

The Steelers also noted that they have received a two-week roster exemption for Bell.

This allows them to carry 54 players until Bell is activated, which could (and likely will) happen before Sunday’s game at Cleveland.

Bell rushed for 1,268 yards and seven touchdowns in 2016. He also had 75 receptions for 616 yards and two touchdowns. Bell was also selected to the Pro Bowl last season.

After the season, the Steelers will have a big decision to make.

Pittsburgh can sign Bell to a long-term contract, apply the franchise tender again (by rule, he’d be entitled to $14.56 million) or allow him to become a free agent.

 

Cox Media Group

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