By Justin McGonigle
The Steelers and running back LeVeon Bell did not come to an agreement prior to the 4pm deadline set Monday by the league. Bell instead will sign his 12.12 million dollar franchise tag offer that was placed on him in February.
Bell now becomes the highest paid running back in the NFL eclipsing Buffalo running back LeSean McCoy's 8 million per year salary. After missing the first three games due to a suspension in 2016, Bell ran for 1268 yards, caught 75 passes for 608 yards and a combined 9 touchdowns.
The Steelers worked until the final seconds attempting to finish a deal with Bell, but the two sides were unable to come to an agreement. With the deadline passing the Steelers won’t be able to discuss a contract extension with Bell until the conclusion of the 2017 season. If they are unable to reach an agreement then they will be able to franchise him again next season for 120% of his salary this season. That comes in at over 14 million.
