Steelers: Pittsburgh should pay Le’Veon Bell

Le’Veon Bell is entering the final year of his contract, and with buzz arising about his desire for a big contract, it might be a worthy investment where the potential reward outweighs the risk.

Le’Veon Bell is the most complete running back in the league, when healthy. That is a statement that plenty of people across the nation would agree on. He is a dual threat who can create big plays in the running and passing game, and is a rare breed of strength, speed, and elusiveness.

The idea of giving him the big contract seems like a no brainer, but it’s a lot more complicated than just his undoubted skill. Over the past two seasons, Bell has undergone serious knee injuries. This proneness to injury is a major concern and might make Steelers management question a long term deal.

How could the Steelers possibly pay a guy who has major injury concerns more than any running back in the entire league?

The reason is simple. Because Le’Veon Bell is the best young running back in the league, and if the Steelers aren’t willing to pay him, another team will be, and they could get a star. The Steelers can’t possibly pass him up. He’s just too good.

When Le’Veon Bell is on the field, he might be the best running back in the league. In 2014, he was 2nd in the league in rushing yards, behind only DeMarco Murray, who carried the ball over a hundred times more. Bell displayed some of the best play seen at the position in years, and proved his worth.

In 2015, his production did not slow, despite the injury he suffered in Week 17 against the Bengals the year prior. Bell was leading the league in rushing yards (having played two games less than everyone else due to his suspension), and was averaging almost 5 yards per carry.

In the past, injuries have proven to be a detriment to running backs, turning promising careers south. With that being said, Bell bounced back from last year’s injury, and while this one is more severe, he should have every opportunity to do the same this year. He is a special player, and the Steelers cannot afford to let him go.

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With Bell in the lineup, the Steelers boast the “Killer B” trio of Ben, Brown, and Bell. Together, they pose a threat on any down, pass or run. Together, they have a real opportunity to be the best offense in football, and make a couple Super Bowl runs over the next few years. It’s not the time to break that up.