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The Pittsburgh Steelers and running back Le’Veon Bell have until 4 p.m. ET to reach a long-term contract, and reports are stating there isn’t a deal close, or imminent, between the two parties.
This from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport:
Negotiations are ongoing, but no deal is close or imminent for #Steelers RB Le’Veon Bell. This one may go down to the wire. ⏳
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 17, 2017
While most reports, like this one, are leaving the door open for a potential deal to get done, it doesn’t seem like the two parties will be able to come to terms on a new contract.
If Bell doesn’t sign a new contract he will have to sign his franchise tender, worth $12.1 million dollars for the 2017 season, and when that event takes place is anyone’s guess. This could lead to a hold out, meaning Bell could sit out the majority of training camp, and the preseason, before reporting to work with his teammates.
Stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news on the situation, and whether the Steelers and Bell are able to ink a deal which will keep the versatile back in the Steel City for the long haul.