Steelers OTAs Recap Day 1: Le’Veon Bell absent from voluntary workouts

The Pittsburgh Steelers were back to work Tuesday as the teams started their Organized Team Activities (OTAs) at the team’s UPMC Rooney Practice Facility. While Martavis Bryant’s return to the field after a year absence was headline news, an offensive star who missed the workout also made news.

That superstar would be none other than running back Le’Veon Bell, and his absence caught the attention of Ben Roethlisberger. Although Roethlisberger isn’t concerned, or worried, about the absence the report by Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette certainly shows a captain who wants his teammates present at the workouts.

“I’m not worried about the chemistry, but I wish he’d be here just because he’s one of the pieces to our puzzle,” Roethlisberger said. “I know he can’t participate because I don’t think he’s 100 percent healthy, but it would be nice to see him here just in terms of the chemistry and learning and being a part of this process. But obviously, it’s up to him.”

Bell’s health is understandable, but before fans flip out over his absence, it should be reiterated these workouts are voluntary. Bell won’t be fined for missing, and he likely won’t report to training camp out of shape. Until Bell misses more workouts, fans should realize he could be nursing his injured groin, or he could be making a stand on his contract.

Only time will tell...

Martavis Bryant Talks

The spotlight was bright on the wide receiver who missed all of the 2016 season. He ran with the 1’s in drills, and has gained 10-pounds of muscle this offseason, but that wasn’t the biggest news he shared to the media. What shocked me the most was how he will be drug tested almost three times a week, and has to meet weekly with a counselor. This is all part of his “conditional” reinstatement.

Check out the full interview below:

T.J. Watt Impresses

When the Steelers wrapped up their rookie minicamp, coaches lauded T.J. Watt’s football IQ and his ability to grasp the playbook. Many, including myself, wanted to hold the applause until he actually took the field, even in shorts, with the veterans. As it turns out, the praise continues for the team’s top draft pick.

All good things coming regarding Watt thus far, but as we know the team hasn’t donned pads yet.

Big Al Shows

Like there was any doubt Alejandro Villanueva would report for duty. Despite not signing his Exclusive Rights Free Agent tender, Villanueva was there and putting in work. Need proof? See below:

The Steelers continue their OTAs on Wednesday 5/24/17.

Video and Pictures