Sunday 25 March 2018 18:41, UK
The Pittsburgh Steelers still hope to work out a long-term deal with star running back Le'Veon Bell, but the team is putting negotiations on hold for the moment while it addresses free agency and the draft.
The Steelers have assigned their franchise tag - which is valued at $14.54m - to Bell for the 2018 season.
Pittsburgh general manager Kevin Colbert says the Steelers still hope to work out an extension with Bell but talks are on hold until after the NFL draft, which takes place on April 26, 27 and 28.
When asked about Bell, Colbert told ESPN: "We're not intentionally ignoring that. More urgent business needs to get taken care of.
"We will reassess where that is. He'll reassess where his interests are as well. I anticipate us continuing that process once we get through the free agency period and maybe even through the draft. The draft can change things on both sides."
Last year, the 26-year-old was the recipient of Pittsburgh's exclusive tag at a rate of $12.12m.
Bell has said he would consider skipping training camp or even missing regular season games if he doesn't have a deal in place. The sides have until July 16 to work out a deal.
"He's not under contract (in that case), he doesn't have to show up. He doesn't sign the deal, then we'll deal with it when it happens. There's nothing to react to," Colbert said.
The two-time first-team All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler has said he would not play under a contract averaging less than $14.5m per season.
Bell rushed for 1,291 yards and a career-high nine touchdowns in 15 games last season while also catching 85 passes for 655 yards and two scores. His 35 career rushing TDs are tied for third in Steelers history and his 5,336 rushing yards rank fourth.
