Report: Steelers preparing for an “extended absence” for RB Le’Veon Bell

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell is known for his patience on the football field. Waiting for just the right moment before darting through the line of scrimmage.

As it turns out, Bell’s patience has also been converted to off-field situations, mainly his current holdout before signing his franchise tag tender. After Bell missed the Week 1 contest vs. the Cleveland Browns, CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Confora said the Steelers are expecting, and treating, Bell’s absence as one of the extended variety.

In other words, the Steelers don’t think Bell is coming back anytime soon.

Take a look at what he said:

La Confora talks about why the Steelers, as an organization and the team itself, felt betrayed when Bell didn’t show before the Week 1 game, and that is because he had reportedly told coaches and players he would be back before Week 1.

The difference between these talks, and talks leading up to Week 1, is how James Conner performed in the team’s game on Sunday. Conner tallied almost 200-yards of total offense, and had two rushing touchdowns to boot. Conner did more than just play well, he proved he can do the job if need be.

What has yet to be seen is how Conner’s past, and future, performances will possibly impact Bell’s stance on when he will return. If Conner continues the thrive, will it cause him to come back earlier than planned? If his holdout is truly to avoid injury, Conner’s stat lines shouldn’t make a difference in Bell’s decision to return.

At this point, I feel it is appropriate to state how it feels as if this is a soap opera, with no end in sight.

Like sand through the hour glass...so are the days of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ lives.