Roethlisberger on Bell: “I hoped he was Going to Show Up”

Le’Veon Bell decided to leave Pittsburgh. He didn’t show up in Steelers’ headquarters yesterday until 4 p.m. That was the deadline for him to report to the team. With this action, one of the best running backs in the last several years, decided to miss the rest of the season, and not only that, but to lose all of his $14.54 million, plus additional bonuses. This was the amount he would have got if he chose the accept Steelers franchise tag.

One of the guys who really hoped to see Bell in yellow-black uniform was Ben Roethlisberger.

“I texted him yesterday before the deadline asking him — texted — saying I was hoping he was going to show up,” said Big Ben and continued, “and if he decided not to I wish him nothing but the best”

Steelers quarterback didn’t get any reply. It was something he didn’t expect. One part of him thought that Bell might change his mind, and the other because he believes that it is hard for any player to sit down and miss the entire season. Especially when he is at his prime. Also, Roethlisberger said that being a part of a group is something which motivates people.

“Part of the great thing about this sport is the band of brothers and the group of guys in here and being with them. That’s what keeps me coming back after so many years. To each his own, each guy has their own motives and motivations.”

It seemed that Big Ben took this situation very hard, and his emotions were mixed. And how couldn’t they be, as he lost one of his best weapons, but what is more important, a friend and teammate.

“I can’t comment on him. I am glad that we don’t have to talk about this anymore.” he then concluded.

It is a fortune for the Steelers that they don’t have to think about Bell’s replacement. It already showed up. James Conner.

“We have guys who have NFL experience, and we have a guy who is getting experience,” Roethlisberger told the journalists. The two-time Super Bowl champion obviously meant on Conner.

In his first game as a starter, he rushed 135 yards on 31 carries. And he continued to do the same all season long. Conner is currently the third rusher in league with 771 yards after 164 carries, averaging 4.7 yards per carrying. His 10 touchdowns are a new record in the history of this franchise when looking first nine games. He is one of only seven running back in Steelers history who rushed for 10 touchdowns.

But not only that, he proved to be a very consistent and effective weapon as a receiver. Conner gathered 287 yards in 39 receptions, and one touchdown, against Baltimore.

There is one very important thing about this guy. Pittsburgh is his home. He went to college here and was born in Erie, Pennsylvania. So, playing for the Steelers is something which means a lot for him, unlike in Bell’s case.

As for the “renegade”, as some of the fans call Bell, there is a lot of decision making in the future. Many franchises would like to sign him, but not all of them have enough money in their salary cap. So, he might be in a position where he has to choose between money and the Super Bowl ring.

The Steelers, however, have excellent prospects to go all the way this season. If they stay healthy and avoid injuries like during the previous year, Tomlin and his boys could dethrone the Patriots in the American football conference. At the moment, they are 6-2-1, with a nice schedule in the upcoming 7 weeks.