The Steelers' star running back is picking a weird time to threaten retirement over his next contract

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January 12, 2018 5:26 PM

In the middle of the team's push for the Super Bowl star Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell says he might be retiring next season if the Steelers franchise him.

Star running back Le'Veon Bell told reporters on Thursday that he may sit out or even retire next season if the Steelers use the franchise tag on him again.
While it's no surprise Bell feels this way, the timing is quite odd, as the Pittsburgh Steelers are currently in the middle of the playoff race, and days away from their matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars for a spot in the AFC Championship.
Bell took to Twitter to make clear that while he meant what he said, his sole focus and goal for now is bringing another Super Bowl to Pittsburgh.

Le'Veon Bell may be in the midst of a playoff push, but he's already thinking about next season.

While speaking with reporters before practice on Thursday, Bell made it clear that he has no interest in the Steelers using their franchise tag on him for a second consecutive year, saying that he would even consider sitting out the year or even retirement if it happens.

While it's no surprise that Bell is looking to maximize his earning potential, the timing of the news is quite odd. The Pittsburgh Steelers are in the middle of a playoff race, with their first postseason game set for this Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

From Bell's position, it's something of a power move, especially if he plays well through the postseason. But it's likely the Steelers' front officeis not at all pleased with the timing. That said, after the news started to make the rounds, Bell was quick to clarify that despite his comments about the 2018 season, he was focused on one thing — helping the Steelers to another Super Bowl victory.

I#emo#m trying to win a super b... @ Le'Veon Bell

Bell will get the chance to prove it on Sunday, when the Steelers host the Jaguars with a trip to the AFC Championship on the line.

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