Reports surfaced that running back Le’Veon Bell has his eyes on the Indianapolis Colts in 2019, and he could be the player they need to take the next step
As soon as the Pittsburgh Steelers put the franchise tag on Le’Veon Bell for the second time in a row, it was expected he would be gone in 2019. Bell also made it clear he had no intentions of playing without the security of a long-term deal.
There was constant speculation that he would eventually show up, but Bell himself gave no indications he would cave on his stance. In the end, he never showed and won’t play at all this year. However, he still intends to play going forward and should hit the open market in 2019.
With many teams potentially vying for his services, there’s one that reportedly already has his attention. According to Ralph Vacchiano of SNY, Bell likes what he’s been seeing out of the Indianapolis Colts.
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"Running back Le’Veon Bell, who is expected to become a free agent on March 13, “has his eyes on” the Indianapolis Colts, according to a source familiar with Bell’s plans. The source, who has spoken to Bell, said the free agent hasn’t ruled out signing with the Jets or any team that pursues him, but the Colts, with quarterback Andrew Luck and perhaps more than $120 million in salary cap room, seem to be at the “top of his list.” — Vacchiano, SNY"
Vacchiano did also say the New York Jets are a team that could make a run at Bell, but it’s understandable why Indy would be more attractive to him. Not only are the Colts the better team overall, but they also have the better quarterback in Andrew Luck.
His presence makes Indianapolis a threat despite some holes on their roster. While running back may not necessarily be a hole for them now, Bell would be a massive upgrade over Marlon Mack and rookie Nyheim Hines.
On top of that, Bell is a good enough receiver out of the backfield that he would give Luck another weapon to throw to when defenses are able to slow down T.Y. Hilton and Eric Ebron.
After playing without Luck in 2017 due to injury, the Colts are once again a potential playoff team — despite a 1-5 start this year. Should they land Bell in the offseason, there’s no doubt the Colts would go from a playoff entrant to one of the more feared teams in the AFC.
It would cost them a lot of money as Bell is clearly looking to get paid. But that could be what it takes to overthrow some of the other AFC powerhouses.