Steelers Use Exclusive Franchise Tag On Le’Veon Bell

As expected, the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise-tagged star running back Le’Veon Bell on Tuesday just before the 4pm EST deadline.

Le’Veon Bell Steelers franchise tag news

The two sides now have until July 16 to agree on a multi-year deal. The second tag for the 26-year-old running back will pay him $14.544 million in 2018. As in 2017, the Steelers used the exclusive tag, which means Bell can only negotiate with Pittsburgh. Bell is reportedly unhappy he and the team haven’t been able to agree on a deal he believes is worth his “value.”

The Michigan State product started off the 2017 season slow, but finished with 1,291 rushing yards (third-most in NFL) and nine touchdowns on 321 carries, adding 85 receptions (second-most on Steelers) for 655 yards and 2 TD catches.

Bell, a three-time Pro Bowler, was suspended for the first three games of the 2016 regular season for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. He and former Steelers teammate LeGarrette Blount were arrested on DUI and marijuana possession charges in August 2014.

PITTSBURGH, PA – DECEMBER 10: Le’Veon Bell #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers carries the ball against Michael Pierce #97 of the Baltimore Ravens in the second half during the game at Heinz Field on December 10, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)