Colbert still working for Bell’s long-term contract
Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert said the team continues to have on-going discussions on a long-term contract for Le’Veon Bell and that neither side wants to see a franchise tag placed on the All-Pro running back for the second year in a row.
Colbert said he is “optimistic” a deal can be reached with Bell, and he hopes it’s before the March 6 deadline for franchise tags to be used by NFL teams.
“We have and we’ll continue to have negotiations,” Colbert said Wednesday at the NFL combine.
“We’re trying to figure out a common ground for a long-term deal. That’s not only our goal but his as well.”
Colbert did not rule out the possibility the Steelers will use the franchise tag again on Bell, just as they did for the 2017 season.
“We never liked talking about the tag,” Colbert said. “That’s nobody’s goal. That’s not their goal, that’s not our goal. But we’ll never say the tag is not available because it’s a collectively bargained item that, if need be, will be put to use.”
Asked if a deal can be reached before the March 6 deadline, Colbert said, “We hope so.” But he would not say if the two sides were close on an agreement.
“I don’t like to get into too much detail,” Colbert said. “I can say this, I’m optimistic we can find common ground. Those things are never final until they are final.”
The Steelers discovered that last year when they thought they had a longterm deal completed with Bell, only to have it rejected at the last minute.
“We’re focused on getting a long-term deal,” Colbert said.
Broncos
John Elway gave his clearest indication that he’s going to pursue Kirk Cousins, the prize of freeagent quarterbacks. “We’re going to explore all options in free agency and see where that goes,” Elway said at the NFL combine. “Obviously we’ve got the fifth pick in the draft, too. That will all play into it. We’ll continue to look at all of the options when it comes to quarterback.” The Denver Broncos general manager stressed that he’ll look at “anybody that won’t be under contract.”
Vikings
Minnesota is still in evaluation mode when it comes to quarterbacks, according to general manager Rick Spielman. With Case Keenum, Teddy Bridgewater and Sam Bradford each on track to become an unrestricted free agent in two weeks, the Vikings have yet to make any final decisions about any of them.
Panthers
Carolina released running back Jonathan Stewart. Stewart became the franchise’s career rushing leader in 2017, finishing with 7,318 rushing yards. Stewart’s 1,699 rushing attempts are also the most in franchise history, while his 58 touchdowns (51 rushing, seven receiving) are second in franchise history.
Jets
Running back Matt Forte announced his retirement ending a 10-year career in which he gained 9,796 yards with 54 touchdowns while playing for the Bears and the Jets.
Colts
Indianapolis informed Frank Gore they do not intend to re-sign him this offseason. General manager Chris Ballard said the Colts need to get younger at the position and he wants Gore to finish his career in a place of his choosing.