Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell is set to hit unrestricted free agency on March 14, and while the Steelers could retain him for 2018 under the franchise tag, they appear to reciprocate his desire for a long-term contract.
When asked Thursday if he was optimistic about a long-term deal getting done, general manager Kevin Colbert replied "I believe I am," according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler
"We never will discount the use of the (franchise) tag because that's collectively bargained," Colbert said. "But, again, our goal is to have something done on a long-term basis."
Related: Le'Veon Bell would consider sitting out, retiring if franchise tagged again
Bell earned $12,120,000 under the franchise tag in 2017, according to Over The Cap, but not until after he missed the entirety of training camp.
The extended time off seemed to serve him well. Bell racked up 1,946 yards from scrimmage with 11 total touchdowns. He led the league with 321 regular-season rushing attempts and added 85 receptions on 107 targets in just 15 games played.
The Steelers could temporarily place Bell under the tag between Feb. 20 and March 6, and have until July 15 to come to terms on a multi-year deal.
His GM isn't worried about a heavy workload taking away from his effectiveness long term.
"Le'Veon has been a great player for us," Colbert said. "We think he can still be a great player from this point forward and we'd love for him to be a Pittsburgh Steeler for the rest of his career."
Steelers owner Art Rooney II told reporters earlier this month that he wants Bell signed to a long-term contract.
