Bell wants to remain a Steeler if 'circumstances' allow

Le'Veon Bell wants to stay with the Pittsburgh Steelers after he becomes a free agent when the league year ends, but the star running back admitted it might not happen.

Speaking to the media after Pittsburgh's shocking defeat by the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Bell made it clear that he hopes to remain with the franchise. However, he stoppedt stopped short of guaranteeing a return.

"I never want to leave this city," Bell said, according to Katherine Terrell of ESPN. "But obviously, circumstances and things like that. But I definitely don't."

"Circumstances" likely refers to the possibility of being hit with the franchise tag for a second straight season. The All-Pro rusher said Thursday that he would consider sitting out next season or even retiring if he's franchise-tagged again for 2018.

Bell is arguably the top running back in the league. He's amassed 7,996 total yards through 62 career games, the most of any player over that span since 1970.