Le’Veon Bell, Pittsburgh Steelers discuss two-week roster exemption
The Pittsburgh Steeler finally heard from Le’Veon Bell, or at least his agent. The two sides spoke last week regarding the running back’s return.
Fox Sports Insider Jay Glazer reported on Sunday that Bell’s agent and the Steelers spoke about a possible two-week roster exemption following his return. Bell is expected to return to the team this week as the team prepares for the Cleveland Browns in Week 8.
The exemption would mean Bell is able of practicing with the team once he returns, but would not be able to play in the Steelers’ next two games.
The problem here is that Pittsburgh and Bell would need to negotiation, again. The two sides would need to agree on a compensation for those two weeks he’s unable to play. Knowing their history, it’s hard to believe they’ll come to an agreement.
Steelers and Bell’s rep finally talked late last week about terms of a two-week roster exemption, which both sides need to agree to before he rejoins team. Steelers at this point don’t want to pay him during exemption and obviously Bell wants to get paid
— Jay Glazer (@JayGlazer) October 21, 2018
Bell’s side will likely be pushing for the full $855,000 he would earn if he signed the tender. Unless the Steelers are willing to give up almost the whole amount, it’s not likely Bell’s party will agree.
At the end of all this, Bell is probably just going to wait out the time needed and then sign his tender. He’s concerned about his money, which he should be, but his need in Pittsburgh isn’t needed at the moment. He doesn’t wish to be traded by the team, so this holdout will more than likely continue into Week 9.
James Conner continues to improve as the season progresses, and will still be a major part of the offense once Bell returns. Without the pressing need for Bell, the Steelers aren’t going to budge easy when the negotiating begins.
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The team has vocalized they would like a two-running back system once Bell returns. Expect Bell on the field, soon, and one of the best backfields in the NFL.