Bell suggests he could sit out at least half of 2018 season

Pittsburgh Steelers star running back Le'Veon Bell remains an unhappy recipient of the franchise tag.

Prior to Tuesday's deadline, Bell suggested he could hold out at least halfway through the 2018 season - if he plays at all - during an interview about his new eight-track album with Billboard's Andrew Unterberger.

"But obviously, when the end of July comes (the deadline to sign tagged players), wherever we're at ... if I sign, everybody'll be happy, but if not, I guess I gotta play it by ear," Bell said. "If I'll be out till Week 1, if I'll be out till Week 10, or if I'm gonna be out there at all. It depends on how I feel at that time and moment."

It's the second straight season under the exclusive tag for Bell, who will earn $14.544 million for the 2018 campaign.

He added that he's still "definitely hoping for something to get done" with the Steelers long term.

Related: Le'Veon Bell would consider sitting out, retiring if franchise tagged again

The 26-year-old has previously suggested his willingness to hold out or even retire if Pittsburgh doesn't meet his financial demands. He has consistently emphasized that he wants to reinvigorate the declining running-back market with his potentially record-setting contract.