OnaSportz
Feb 6, 2024
Former Steelers RB plans to make a comeback to one team only!
After a two-year hiatus from the NFL, Le’Veon Bell, a former All-Pro running back who spent five years with the Pittsburgh Steelers, announced on social media that he is considering a return to the league, but only if he can play with one team.
It appears Bell is likely referring to the Steelers, a team he had great success with during the first five years of his career, amassing over 5,000 rushing yards, 35 touchdowns, and multiple Pro Bowl appearances. Following a contract dispute in 2018, Bell left Pittsburgh and played for four other teams over the next three years, never finding the same level of success as before.
Despite rumors that he had retired, Bell had not officially announced his retirement and instead pursued professional boxing. In an update last offseason, Bell expressed regret about how his time ended in Pittsburgh and stated that he hoped to retire as a Steeler, even if it was just for a few preseason snaps.
However, Bell’s latest social media post indicates a desire to make a genuine comeback with his preferred team. Turning 32 this month, Bell will need to get back into training to assess his physical limits and determine if he can play at an NFL level again.
The Steelers currently have running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren on their roster, so it is unclear if they will pursue Bell. Nonetheless, if Bell is feeling like his old self in April, he may seek to rekindle his relationship with the team that ended on bad terms six years ago.
Le'Veon Bell before:
Le’Veon Bell has been one of the most dynamic and productive running backs in the NFL since entering the league in 2013. The former Michigan State standout was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft and wasted no time making an impact on the field.
In his rookie season, Bell rushed for over 800 yards and scored eight touchdowns while also contributing as a receiver out of the backfield. He quickly became a focal point of the Steelers’ offense and was a key factor in their success over the next several years.
Bell’s unique combination of speed, power, and agility made him a nightmare for opposing defenses to contain. His patient running style, often compared to a chess match, allowed him to wait for holes to develop before exploding through them for big gains.
In 2014, Bell had a breakout season, rushing for over 1,300 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns. He also set a new Steelers’ record for receptions by a running back with 83 catches on the season. Bell was named to his first Pro Bowl and solidified his status as one of the top running backs in the league.
However, Bell’s tenure with the Steelers wasn’t without its challenges. Contract negotiations between Bell and the team dragged on for several seasons, with Bell holding out for a long-term deal. The Steelers ultimately placed the franchise tag on Bell for two consecutive seasons, leading to tensions between the player and the organization.
After sitting out the entire 2018 season due to a contract dispute, Bell became a free agent and signed with the New York Jets in 2019. His departure from Pittsburgh marked the end of an era for the Steelers, who had relied on Bell’s skills and versatility to carry them to several playoff appearances.
Despite the ups and downs of his time with the Steelers, Le’Veon Bell will always be remembered as one of the most talented and electrifying players to wear the black and gold. His impact on the team and the league as a whole will not be forgotten, and his legacy as one of the all-time great Steelers running backs is secure.