Bell believes Steelers will re-sign him: 'I don't think they really want me gone'

Despite all the turmoil surrounding his contract standoff with the Steelers, Le'Veon Bell is optimistic about his long-term future in Pittsburgh.

"I could be naive or hopeful, but at the end of the day I feel like that's what's going to happen," Bell said Monday about re-signing with the team, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. "I don't think they really want me gone. That could be me being prideful. But I'm still holding out hope."

Bell reportedly expects to end his holdout and return to the Steelers during the team's Week 7 bye.

Pittsburgh apparently remains interested in listening to trade offers for the All-Pro running back. However, Bell doesn't see a "logical team giving up (a high pick and a player) potentially for someone who could play six games with no guarantee of a long-term deal."

While Bell has received his fair share of criticism for his decision to stay away from the Steelers, he remains adamant that he made the right call for his future.

"It sucks having to sit out football," Bell said. "I want to play. I want to win games and the playoffs.

"But I've gotta take this stand. Knowing my worth and knowing I can tear a ligament or get surgery at any time, I knew I couldn't play 16 games with 400 or more touches."