For the Pittsburgh Steelers, it isn’t the same waiting for the Le’Veon Bell
Le’Veon Bell might show up, he might not. Either way, the Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t concerned about when the running back will report for the season.
This isn’t the same as the beginning of the year. When Le’Veon Bell decided to hold out in September, the whole team was shocked. James Conner was prepared, but wasn’t aware it was his backfield until three days before the opening kick.
It appeared that frantically, the Steelers tried to turn all attention away from Bell, and did a poor job on it. All news centered around Bell and the Steelers’ comments on the situation. Tying the Cleveland Browns was the outcome.
This time is different. James Conner has proven to be a starting NFL running back, this team is on a two-game winning streak, and everyone is feeling good. Bell told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that he would return during the bye week, but if it happens, it happens, if it doesn’t, it doesn’t.
The anticipation isn’t high. The players aren’t concerned, nor does it appear they really care. Conner is the man they want with the ball in his hands. Bell will be welcomed by the team, but it doesn’t seem they truly believe he’s coming back, yet.
Waiting for Bell isn’t on the minds of Pittsburgh. Even the fans have the feel that this story is getting old fast. If he shows up, great, put the ball in his hands without taking it away from Conner. If he doesn’t, well, there’s still Conner.
The impact of missing Bell isn’t as significant as it was in Week 1. This team was struggling to find itself, but really, it was just taking some time to come together. Now, the defense is clicking, Antonio Brown and Ben Roethlisberger are back, and Conner is running and catching strong.
dark. Next. Steelers head into bye week with lingering question
The atmosphere isn’t “when is Bell showing up?” No one looks like they’re too concerned where Bell is. If he shows up before next week, they’ll be excited, but chances are he’s going to make everyone wait, again.