Bell: Key to absence was good health

own timeline. He said there were no hard feelings between him and the team or his teammates.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported last month the Steelers thought they had a long-term deal with Bell’s agent, but Bell nixed it just before the July 17 deadline. The proposed contract averaged more than $12 million annually and would have paid Bell $30 million in the first two years of the deal.

“I don’t care,” Bell said Monday, when asked about the Post-Gazette report. “I don’t understand where that came from. I don’t care about that report.” that time is all he needs to

Under league rules, all know about the situation. Bell had to do was sign his “You know what type contract before Sunday and of player he is and how electrifying he’d be guaranteed his $12.12 he is and what he million salary for the 2017 brings to the passing game season. and running game. We’re

“I want to be here with my happy to have him here.” teammates,” Bell said. Bell said the fact he and “They understood what I the Steelers could not come was going through at the to terms on a long-term deal same time. There’s a little does not mean he is closed to give and take there. They understood trying again on another negotiation I’d show up and be after the season. in shape and be ready for The Steelers can control his Game 1.” rights for the 2019 season if

Center Maurkicethey choose to exercise the Pouncey said he had no issues franchise option again. Only with Bell not showing next year, they’d have to pay up until Monday. Pouncey him $14.5 million on a oneyear said Bell’s four-year tenure deal. and his production during “I don’t look at it being a negative,” Bell said of the negotiations with the Steelers. “We didn’t get a deal done. That’s not a bash on me or the organization. We’ll go through the season. Maybe next year something happens. ”

Bell worked out on his own during his absence from the team. He appeared to be in terrific shape, but he admits there is a difference from merely being in good shape and being in football shape.

The Steelers received a two-week roster exemption from the NFL when he signed his tender, but indications are he will play Sunday against the Browns.