Le’Veon Bell and the Pittsburgh Steelers don’t appear to be close to a long-term contract agreement, and that likely will result in the star running back being franchise tagged for the second straight season.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported on the situation Monday. Bell and the Steelers have until Tuesday’s NFL deadline to reach a contract or the tag will be used.
Filed to @ESPN: Steelers inform Le'Veon Bell he's being tagged absent last-minute (and unlikely) deal, team has come up from last year's offer but $14.5 M per year is Bell's new floor.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) March 5, 2018
While a long-term deal would give Bell more financial security, he will be paid handsomely in 2018 if franchise tagged.
Bell was one of the best players in the NFL during the 2017 campaign. He ran for 1,291 yards with nine rushing touchdowns, in addition to 85 receptions for 655 yards and two touchdowns.
Bell just turned 26 in February and has played six pro seasons, all with the Steelers.
