Could Le'Veon Bell Return To Steelers? Football Experts Weigh In

PITTSBURGH, PA — After an acrimonious departure after a season in which he refused to play for the Steelers, could Le'Veon Bell return to the Steelers? Some football observers believe the possibility exists.

The New York Jets on Tuesday released the disgruntled running back after being unable to trade him. The team issued a statement from general manager Joe Douglas in which he said the Jets made the move after having discussions with Bell and his agent recently.

“The Jets organization appreciates Le'Veon's efforts during his time here and we know he worked hard to make significant contributions to this team,” Douglas said. “We believe this decision is in the best interests of both parties and wish him future success."

Bell, 28, played for the Steelers from 2013 to 2017. He sat out the 2018 season after refusing to accept the franchise tag and then signed with the Jets, where he never displayed the form he had with the Steelers.

So what's next for him? Football writers across the country predict various scenarios, but here is what they say about a possible return to the Steelers:

Nate Davis, USA Today: "Worth considering, unlikely as a reunion seems. Durability isn't starting RB James Conner's calling card, and second-year understudy Benny Snell Jr. has four career receptions. And where else could Bell make an immediate splash given his familiarity with QB Ben Roethlisberger and this proud team's culture? And sure would be nice to play relevant games again, Pittsburgh off to its first 4-0 start since the Steel Curtain era. And who knows? A reconciliation really might work long term when considering Conner is unsigned beyond this season."

Jason Owens, Yahoo Sports: "Bell claimed last season that the Steelers were interested when he was reported to be on the trading block. That seems hard to believe considering the salary Bell would have carried to Pittsburgh and the Steelers’ previous unwillingness to pay him a premium. Now that the price will be substantially less, can these two parties make up? The 4-0 Steelers are absolutely Super Bowl contenders, and Bell would amount to an ultimate luxury sharing the backfield with James Conner."

Bill Barnwell, ESPN: "The best story of the bunch would see Bell return to the Steelers, but I'm skeptical there's a great fit. James Conner is averaging nearly 5 yards per carry as the Pittsburgh starter, and while he has his injury issues, Benny Snell Jr. was effective in what amounted to a spot start against the Giants when Conner was unavailable. The Steelers also have Anthony McFarland Jr. in reserve and Jaylen Samuels in a third-down role."

Jake Nisse, New York Post: "Pittsburgh has a solid bell cow in James Conner, but were reportedly interested in trading for Bell before the Jets cut him. Could they reunite with their former star?"