Le'Veon Bell Wants to be a Colt

[Chaka]

Multiple news stories in the last couple of days that Le'Veon Bell is targeting the Colts as his preferred free agent destination:

https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/21/report-leveon-bell-has-his-eyes-on-the-indianapolis-colts/

Maybe not a shock given the Colts cap situation and bright future. I've expressed my opinion on this subject many times on this board, so I won't repeat it here again, but I thought everyone would like to know that what many here have speculated is now being widely reported by the national media.

[njcoltfan]

Multiple news stories in the last couple of days that Le'Veon Bell is targeting the Colts as his preferred free agent destination:

https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/21/report-leveon-bell-has-his-eyes-on-the-indianapolis-colts/

Maybe not a shock given the Colts cap situation and bright future. I've expressed my opinion on this subject many times on this board, so I won't repeat it here again, but I thought everyone would like to know that what many here have speculated is now being widely reported by the national media.
And I want to win the lottery, neither one is gonna happen!

[Chaka]

And I want to win the lottery, neither one is gonna happen!

I don't see it either.

[njcoltfan]

I don't see it either.

Signing Bell would go against everything that Ballard has been preaching since he became GM

[FatDT]

He wants money and a Super Bowl. We have tons of cap and a team on the brink of competing for a ring. So it's no surprise. But Ballard will not pay him.

[Colts And Orioles]

Multiple news stories in the last couple of days that Le'Veon Bell is targeting the Colts as his preferred free agent destination:


https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/21/report-leveon-bell-has-his-eyes-on-the-indianapolis-colts/


Maybe not a shock given the Colts cap situation and bright future. I've expressed my opinion on this subject many times on this board, so I won't repeat it here again, but I thought everyone would like to know that what many here have speculated is now being widely reported by the national media.



o

What a front-runner.

The Colts have just won 7 out of their last 8 games.

The slumping Patriots, on the other hand, have lost 3 out of their last 5.

o

[chicagocolt]

o

What a front-runner.

The Colts have just won 7 out of their last 8 games.

The slumping Patriots, on the other hand, have lost 3 out of their last 5.

o

Fuck the Pats. Maybe the only time I've ever rooted for them was last week and of course they fuck it up.

[Hoopsdoc]

Sure, if he’ll play for a reasonable price.

For what he’s asking? Hell no.

[Oldcolt]

He is a top back. Can be split out at wide receiver. Great pass blocker. If he is willing to sign for what top backs make why not? We have the money, he doesn’t cost draft capital and lets us focus on defense on draft day. The downside is his drug suspensions. Contract would have to have protections. I’m not sure you can say that this is not a Ballard move. We have not seen Ballard be a GM in any circumstances except full rebuild. The culture he wanted is already here If Bells salary concerns are reasonable (my guess is he is more concerned about guaranteed money so his financial future is secured) then I wouldn’t be the least surprised to see Bell sporting a horseshoe next year

And I of course would be the total homer I am and love the move if they did it

[FatDT]

He is a top back. Can be split out at wide receiver. Great pass blocker. If he is willing to sign for what top backs make why not? We have the money, he doesn’t cost draft capital and lets us focus on defense on draft day. The downside is his drug suspensions. Contract would have to have protections. I’m not sure you can say that this is not a Ballard move. We have not seen Ballard be a GM in any circumstances except full rebuild. The culture he wanted is already here If Bells salary concerns are reasonable (my guess is he is more concerned about guaranteed money so his financial future is secured) then I wouldn’t be the least surprised to see Bell sporting a horseshoe next year

And I of course would be the total homer I am and love the move if they did it

He was guaranteed $14 million this year and he turned it down. So whatever financial security he is after will probably be more than Ballard is willing to pay. I don’t think anyone will argue that Bell isn’t a great RB. And yeah we could pay hi what he wants and still have more cap room than anyone. But I don’t think Ballard will depart from the way he does business so drastically.

[Oldcolt]

He was guaranteed $14 million this year and he turned it down. So whatever financial security he is after will probably be more than Ballard is willing to pay. I don’t think anyone will argue that Bell isn’t a great RB. And yeah we could pay hi what he wants and still have more cap room than anyone. But I don’t think Ballard will depart from the way he does business so drastically.

Yes but that was ‘only’ (for us mortals that would be more than enough for a lifetime) 14 million for the rest of his life if he gets hurt. Say you guarantee that over 3 years. If he gets hurt the first year he has 42 million to live on not 14 million. The team (owned by a billionaire) takes the financial risk. He risks his body. I was just giving a hypothetical and numbers would have to work for both sides but I still think it could make sense for us. I generally would agree about Ballard not doing things this way but Bell is a special talent Circumstancces are different. It will be interesting to see Ballard’s move

[Dam8610]

He was guaranteed $14 million this year and he turned it down. So whatever financial security he is after will probably be more than Ballard is willing to pay. I don’t think anyone will argue that Bell isn’t a great RB. And yeah we could pay hi what he wants and still have more cap room than anyone. But I don’t think Ballard will depart from the way he does business so drastically.

He wants a long term deal with guarantees. If he truly is interested, frontload a deal with all guarantees in the first year and go from there. His talent would certainly be useful in Reich's offense.

[Chromeburn]

Bell wants 45 guaranteed and an average of about 17 per year. Steelers might transition tag him.

https://triblive.com/sports/steelers/14309854-85/report-steelers-could-use-transition-tag-to-retain-bell-in-2019

https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2018/11/13/18000364/steelers-leveon-bell-transition-tag-nfl-free-agency-2019

Will Ballard do it? I don't know. He has pursued the top FA's before but would not give them exorbitant contracts. I sure he will at least explore the idea and talk with his agent, part of Ballard's job. We have space and no huge contracts coming up to dish out I believe. Should make a fun off-season.

[TheMugwump]

I'm still on the fence about it, but as has been mentioned multiple times by wiser than me, it's not MY money.

Also yes, Ballard hasn't thrown a ton of money at any top tier FAs...yet. And there is a ton of money available. But I doubt that cap space is just there so that Irsay can save money. I think Ballard has been keeping it available so that he has options if/when a home run hitter becomes available.

The convergence of his availability, the Colts' huge amount of cap space, Indy's need (somewhat debatable) of a #1 RB, and the team's seemingly dramatic upward trend might prove too tempting to all sides.

You know, I've talked myself into this being a win/win. I'm down.

[DragonTails]

I'd like to stick with the 3 backs we have now and upgrade all other parts of the team.

You don't need elite skill position players when you have dominant lines.

[Chromeburn]

I'd like to stick with the 3 backs we have now and upgrade all other parts of the team.

You don't need elite skill position players when you have dominant lines.

Is it mutually exclusive though? I don't know if it is.

[Luck4Reich]

And I want to win the lottery, neither one is gonna happen!

You should play the lottery more if chances are that similar. :cool:

[Racehorse]

Is it mutually exclusive though? I don't know if it is.

I have convinced myself that we should sign him. We have the space. It keeps him from going to another AFC team and vaulting them past us. Just front-load it.

[Oldcolt]

I would love to see how Reich uses Bell's skillset. Both Bell and Hines can play wr Having them on the field at the same time with this offensive line could provide matchup nightmares. You would hope that the Colts at least kick the tires.

[Butter]

Is it mutually exclusive though? I don't know if it is.

It is not, but it is hard to maintain. I just have a hard time wrapping my head around paying a RB as much as he wants, when they take a lot of abuse and tend to drop off hard and quick. He is an amazing talent and would be an awesome tool in this offense, but RBs tend to get banged up at a high rate and just fall off hard. I prefer to stick with the RB by committee.

[Dam8610]

Bell wants 45 guaranteed and an average of about 17 per year. Steelers might transition tag him.

https://triblive.com/sports/steelers/14309854-85/report-steelers-could-use-transition-tag-to-retain-bell-in-2019

https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2018/11/13/18000364/steelers-leveon-bell-transition-tag-nfl-free-agency-2019

Will Ballard do it? I don't know. He has pursued the top FA's before but would not give them exorbitant contracts. I sure he will at least explore the idea and talk with his agent, part of Ballard's job. We have space and no huge contracts coming up to dish out I believe. Should make a fun off-season.

That's actually not far off the numbers I was thinking, which were 5/80/40 guaranteed. The Colts have the cap space to pull it off if they want Bell.

[Chromeburn]

It is not, but it is hard to maintain. I just have a hard time wrapping my head around paying a RB as much as he wants, when they take a lot of abuse and tend to drop off hard and quick. He is an amazing talent and would be an awesome tool in this offense, but RBs tend to get banged up at a high rate and just fall off hard. I prefer to stick with the RB by committee.

I stopped thinking of him as a RB. We would still have the committee though. Heck, we could run a 2 back RPO set if we wanted. We have so much money just sitting there. I feel like I am talking myself into it. I'm just in favor of doing whatever we need to get another SB.

[sherck]

IF the Steelers don't Transition tag him just to show him who is boss...

and IF he is willing to play for around $15m a year...

THEN I would be all for a 3 or 4 year contract.

BUT since I think he will either get tagged (thus costing draft picks to sign) or he will want more than that...

Walk Worthy,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

[Dam8610]

IF the Steelers don't Transition tag him just to show him who is boss...

and IF he is willing to play for around $15m a year...

THEN I would be all for a 3 or 4 year contract.

BUT since I think he will either get tagged (thus costing draft picks to sign) or he will want more than that...

Walk Worthy,

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

A 5 year contract with no guarantees in year 4 or 5 is essentially a 3 year contract.

[DrSpaceman]

I just don't think he is worth the money he wants.

I know the Colts have the cap space, but I would rather see the money spent on upgrading the WRs or on the D.

IF he is signed I would do a three year deal tops, and he probably won't take that.

[JAFF]

In yesterdays game, the rams and seahawks had guys off the street and run for more than 100 yards

Keep the O line together and Ballard can find a back.

[Oldcolt]

He is a playmaker. This team needs them and it is going to be difficult to get anyone who is the player Bell is where we are going to draft. I know he was a second round pick, but he is All-Pro. I know you can get by with someone 'off the streets' (Johnny Unitas was 'off the streets' after all) but I would rather add an All-Pro for money (nobody here know what it will take to sign the guy. I don't want us to break the bank but we should talk to the guy) and focus on defense in the draft

[Pez]

He's a wr2 on our team. Anyone who doesn't think he is better than Inman, Roger's or grant is not being honest.

As much as I think it's a bad idea and not a great fit long term, he will excel here.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

[Maniac]

In yesterdays game, the rams and seahawks had guys off the street and run for more than 100 yards

Keep the O line together and Ballard can find a back.

Someone once said that finding a RB who can run is easy. Finding a complete RB who can run, protect, and catch week in and week out, that's what separates them.

[Dam8610]

In yesterdays game, the rams and seahawks had guys off the street and run for more than 100 yards

Keep the O line together and Ballard can find a back.

Bell isn't just a back. Bell does all of the things you would want from your RB well, including pass block, and also can effectively function as the 2nd best WR on the team, maybe 3rd if Cain breaks out after his injury. Any back can be found to run, but most backs will not offer Frank Reich the versatile, dynamic playmaker that can line up at pretty much any skill position and do it well that Le'veon Bell will provide. Given the absurd amount of cap room the Colts have, it's a smart signing that, as others have pointed out, will allow the Colts to focus on defense in the draft. This team still needs talent at all 3 levels of the defense.

[DrSpaceman]

He's a wr2 on our team. Anyone who doesn't think he is better than Inman, Roger's or grant is not being honest.

As much as I think it's a bad idea and not a great fit long term, he will excel here.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

He would excel here, I don't doubt that

But the question is, is he worth the money he wants. And is it better to spend money on a RB when WR, secondary, pass rush are still huge needs for this team, much more so than RB.

[Dam8610]

He would excel here, I don't doubt that

But the question is, is he worth the money he wants. And is it better to spend money on a RB when WR, secondary, pass rush are still huge needs for this team, much more so than RB.

Imagine if Nyheim Hines was bigger, could pass block, and had the ability to play every down. That's Le'veon Bell. By signing him, you're upgrading your WR group, and he's probably the best option for that this upcoming offseason outside of the draft, unless you don't mind age and like Golden Tate.

[Luck4Reich]

He would excel here, I don't doubt that

But the question is, is he worth the money he wants. And is it better to spend money on a RB when WR, secondary, pass rush are still huge needs for this team, much more so than RB.

I'm not leaning towards Bell but you do realize there is a possibility to add him and still have 80+ million in cap.space to.add plenty of talent elsewhere if available?

[TheMugwump]

He is a playmaker. This team needs them and it is going to be difficult to get anyone who is the player Bell is where we are going to draft. I know he was a second round pick, but he is All-Pro. I know you can get by with someone 'off the streets' (Johnny Unitas was 'off the streets' after all) but I would rather add an All-Pro for money (nobody here know what it will take to sign the guy. I don't want us to break the bank but we should talk to the guy) and focus on defense in the draft

Love the Johnny U reference.

[Dam8610]

I'm not leaning towards Bell but you do realize there is a possibility to add him and still have 80+ million in cap.space to.add plenty of WR and secondary talent?

The WR talent in free agency next year is terrible.

[Chromeburn]

The WR talent in free agency next year is terrible.

Yup, Bell is also probably the best receiver available as well. And we could split Bell out and still have Mack or Hines behind the QB.

[Dam8610]

Yup, Bell is also probably the best receiver available as well. And we could split Bell out and still have Mack or Hines behind the QB.

There are so many creative things that could be done offensively with Bell and Hines on the field at the same time.

[Luck4Reich]

The WR talent in free agency next year is terrible.

Not the point I was making there numbnuts.
The OP talked about not having money to spend on other positions if we signed Bell.

[Dam8610]

Not the point I was making there numbnuts.
The OP talked about not having money to spend on other positions if we signed Bell.

It doesn't matter how much cap space you have to add to a position if there's no talent at the position worth adding.

[FatDT]

I don’t get the passion on either side of this debate.

Ballard’s history says he won’t sign Bell for the money he wants.

Just about everyone agrees Bell has proven he is a great player.

We have an embarrassment of cap space.

If Ballard did sign him, it would be a departure from what Ballard has done so far.

If Ballard did sign him, he would probably excel here and be very exciting to watch.

If Ballard signs him, IMO he’s earned enough credit to get the benefit of the doubt. I don’t think he will ruin the team’s culture to sign Bell. If he thinks Bell is a good player to bring in, I’ll believe that until I have a reason to stop.

If Ballard doesn’t sign him, our offense will probably still be very exciting to watch, and will be improved next year. And we’ll have that much more money to use elsewhere.

[Oldcolt]

Sometimes its is fun to be passionate about something that doesn't really matter in the least. Signing him won't influence me one iota as far as being a Colt fan. It's been 50 years and counting. It's just that Bell would take us to the next level without costing anything except money (unless Pitts transitions him, then no to spending money and draft choices to get him). And it is not my money. So hell yes spend it on the best you can find.

[Dam8610]

Sometimes its is fun to be passionate about something that doesn't really matter in the least. Signing him won't influence me one iota as far as being a Colt fan. It's been 50 years and counting. It's just that Bell would take us to the next level without costing anything except money (unless Pitts transitions him, then no to spending money and draft choices to get him). And it is not my money. So hell yes spend it on the best you can find.

The transition tag doesn't give the Steelers picks, just right of first refusal, which can be circumvented without appearing to be poison pill (though it absolutely would be) by frontloading the deal. Make the first year cap hit literally unaffordable for the Steelers, and he's yours for nothing but money.

[Racehorse]

I don’t get the passion on either side of this debate.

Ballard’s history says he won’t sign Bell for the money he wants.

Just about everyone agrees Bell has proven he is a great player.

We have an embarrassment of cap space.

If Ballard did sign him, it would be a departure from what Ballard has done so far.

If Ballard did sign him, he would probably excel here and be very exciting to watch.

If Ballard signs him, IMO he’s earned enough credit to get the benefit of the doubt. I don’t think he will ruin the team’s culture to sign Bell. If he thinks Bell is a good player to bring in, I’ll believe that until I have a reason to stop.

If Ballard doesn’t sign him, our offense will probably still be very exciting to watch, and will be improved next year. And we’ll have that much more money to use elsewhere.

/thread

[Maniac]

I don’t get the passion on either side of this debate.

Ballard’s history says he won’t sign Bell for the money he wants.

Just about everyone agrees Bell has proven he is a great player.

We have an embarrassment of cap space.

If Ballard did sign him, it would be a departure from what Ballard has done so far.

If Ballard did sign him, he would probably excel here and be very exciting to watch.

If Ballard signs him, IMO he’s earned enough credit to get the benefit of the doubt. I don’t think he will ruin the team’s culture to sign Bell. If he thinks Bell is a good player to bring in, I’ll believe that until I have a reason to stop.

If Ballard doesn’t sign him, our offense will probably still be very exciting to watch, and will be improved next year. And we’ll have that much more money to use elsewhere.

Ballard has also said that he has to re-evaluate his free agent spending this next offseason because he didn't expect the rebuild to be progressing this quickly. That tells me that he purposely didn't spend much previously because he thought it would be wasted if he spent too much too early in the rebuild. So now he realizes that this team is closer, and he will be willing to spend more in free agency to go along with that to fill in the voids and get talent.

In other words, I wouldn't go much on Ballard's history so far.

[Dam8610]

Ballard has also said that he has to re-evaluate his free agent spending this next offseason because he didn't expect the rebuild to be progressing this quickly. That tells me that he purposely didn't spend much previously because he thought it would be wasted if he spent too much too early in the rebuild. So now he realizes that this team is closer, and he will be willing to spend more in free agency to go along with that to fill in the voids and get talent.

In other words, I wouldn't go much on Ballard's history so far.

He was part of the front office that signed Julius Peppers to a mega deal.

[Chaka]

Reasons NOT to sign Le'Veon Bell, in my personal order of significance:

1. Not convinced that he's as effective as his reputation suggests - his last season's production has been exceeded by the replacement RBs that Pittsburgh has used (Conner, Samuels).

2. Might be on the downside of his career - RBs often peak at age 25 or younger.

3. Price - is the upgrade over Mack worth the increased price that Bell would command? I know we have lots of cap space, but I still believe its important to practice financial responsibility. Perhaps that money is better directed at our own existing players.

4. Two time substance abuse violator

5. Holdout - I continue to be concerned about his decision to holdout this season, and his late season snipes at the Steelers.

Incidentally, here's a four part series of articles from Behind the Steel Curtain which attempt to address many of these issues (among several others), and you can judge for yourself whether the arguments are convincing:

Part 1
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/16/17175302/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-one-greed-and-loyalty-franchise-tag-rumors-steelers

Part 2
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/17/17215960/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-two-the-steelers-salary-cap-killer-franchise-tag-nfl

Part 3
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/19/17215958/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-3-the-immature-and-oft-injured-steelers-franchise-tag

Part 4
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/23/17223990/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-four-declining-talent-steelers-statistics-nfl-free-agent

I will say its kind of funny to read the author's comment (written in April) regarding Bell's then-recent threat to sit out the season and not sign the franchise tag - "Come on folks, who actually believed this frustrated bluster? Bell’s not missing out on $900,000 per game, let alone $14.5 million for the entire season."

[Chromeburn]

The transition tag doesn't give the Steelers picks, just right of first refusal, which can be circumvented without appearing to be poison pill (though it absolutely would be) by frontloading the deal. Make the first year cap hit literally unaffordable for the Steelers, and he's yours for nothing but money.

Which really they should do anyway because there are no huge contracts for the next couple years. By the time guys from this recruiting class are due the contract should be minimal. The money is just sitting there otherwise.

[TheMugwump]

Ballard has also said that he has to re-evaluate his free agent spending this next offseason because he didn't expect the rebuild to be progressing this quickly. That tells me that he purposely didn't spend much previously because he thought it would be wasted if he spent too much too early in the rebuild. So now he realizes that this team is closer, and he will be willing to spend more in free agency to go along with that to fill in the voids and get talent.

In other words, I wouldn't go much on Ballard's history so far.

Aren't you supposed to be busy elsewhere tonight?

And I agree with the above. Bless you.

[Luck4Reich]

Aren't you supposed to be busy elsewhere tonight?

And I agree with the above. Bless you.

I think you are mistaken him for Santa Claus. Two different people :cool:

[Brylok]

Would rather have DJ Swearinger? He's suddenly become available because the Redskins are dumb

[chicagocolt]

Would rather have DJ Swearinger? He's suddenly become available because the Redskins are dumb

I would definitely like him on the team. Haven’t watched any redskins this year but he was rated highly for most of the year.

[Luck4Reich]

Would rather have DJ Swearinger? He's suddenly become available because the Redskins are dumb

What is the full story? Because he made comments to the media about the shitty play calling there? I haven't had chance to really read it.

[Dam8610]

Reasons NOT to sign Le'Veon Bell, in my personal order of significance:

1. Not convinced that he's as effective as his reputation suggests - his last season's production has been exceeded by the replacement RBs that Pittsburgh has used (Conner, Samuels).

2. Might be on the downside of his career - RBs often peak at age 25 or younger.

3. Price - is the upgrade over Mack worth the increased price that Bell would command? I know we have lots of cap space, but I still believe its important to practice financial responsibility. Perhaps that money is better directed at our own existing players.

4. Two time substance abuse violator

5. Holdout - I continue to be concerned about his decision to holdout this season, and his late season snipes at the Steelers.

Incidentally, here's a four part series of articles from Behind the Steel Curtain which attempt to address many of these issues (among several others), and you can judge for yourself whether the arguments are convincing:

Part 1
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/16/17175302/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-one-greed-and-loyalty-franchise-tag-rumors-steelers

Part 2
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/17/17215960/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-two-the-steelers-salary-cap-killer-franchise-tag-nfl

Part 3
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/19/17215958/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-3-the-immature-and-oft-injured-steelers-franchise-tag

Part 4
https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2018/4/23/17223990/misconceptions-surrounding-leveon-bell-part-four-declining-talent-steelers-statistics-nfl-free-agent

I will say its kind of funny to read the author's comment (written in April) regarding Bell's then-recent threat to sit out the season and not sign the franchise tag - "Come on folks, who actually believed this frustrated bluster? Bell’s not missing out on $900,000 per game, let alone $14.5 million for the entire season."

The only convincing argument there is 4, and that could be mitigated with a clause in the contract. The Steelers would be better with Bell and they know it, otherwise they wouldn't be considering transition tagging him. So would the Colts. Remember, the upgrade by adding Bell isn't just Bell vs. Mack as #1, it's Mack vs. Hines/Wilkins as #2, plus all the creative things this offense could do putting Bell and Hines, Bell and Mack, or all 3 on the field at the same time. Plus if you want an upgrade at receiver, Bell is your best bet on the 2019 free agent market.

[Brylok]

What is the full story? Because he made comments to the media about the shitty play calling there? I haven't had chance to really read it.
From what I heard on the radio today, yep, that's basically it. He said that Gruden called him into his office and told him that he was cut. When he asked why, Gruden did not respond. That's all that I heard about it, but it sounds typical Redskins. I would want him because he's good, 27 years old, and Geathers & Hooker are injury prone. He'd be valuable if we are a playoff team this year, too.

[Brylok]

That defensive coordinator was Manusky, btw. I'd venture to say that everyone on this board has bad-mouthed him, too. Come home, DJ!

[TheMugwump]

I think you are mistaken him for Santa Claus. Two different people :cool:

I thought they were one and the same.

My bad.

[JAFF]

What is the full story? Because he made comments to the media about the shitty play calling there? I haven't had chance to really read it.

He said Greg Manusky can't call a D plan worth a crap. Been there, done that.

[HoosierinFL]

He’s been reported to be a locker room cancer. I say no fucken way

[Butter]

He’s been reported to be a locker room cancer. I say no fucken way

I have to believe there is more to it than this one incident and there is probably some truth to that report.

[Chaka]

The only convincing argument there is 4, and that could be mitigated with a clause in the contract. The Steelers would be better with Bell and they know it, otherwise they wouldn't be considering transition tagging him. So would the Colts. Remember, the upgrade by adding Bell isn't just Bell vs. Mack as #1, it's Mack vs. Hines/Wilkins as #2, plus all the creative things this offense could do putting Bell and Hines, Bell and Mack, or all 3 on the field at the same time. Plus if you want an upgrade at receiver, Bell is your best bet on the 2019 free agent market.

You make a good point about the domino effect that adding Bell would have upon the entire roster of RBs, but can you explain why you disagree with items 1 and 2? Those are the ones that to me are most concerning.

[JAFF]

The Broncos undrafted running back made the pro bowl this year. I'm sorry, but why would the Colts sign Bell when you can get someone younger and cheaper. Like Michael of the Pats. He was the 31st pick.

Mack has done a very good job for the Colts. They have 3 guys who can play, finding another back like Mack who can also catch the ball, you have options, all of which will cost less than one Bell.

[Dam8610]

You make a good point about the domino effect that adding Bell would have upon the entire roster of RBs, but can you explain why you disagree with items 1 and 2? Those are the ones that to me are most concerning.

1) Getting the same level of production out of two players as you previously did out of one player illustrates the one player's value to me rather than negating it. For example, if player A produces 16 sacks, then the next year players B and C produce 9 and 7 sacks each, that tells me that if I still had player A, then players A, B, and C would likely all be more effective.

2) Who cares? Even if he peaked at 25, a player's prime is longer than one year, and anyone who would be counting on Bell for more than 3-4 years is foolish.

[Chaka]

1) Getting the same level of production out of two players as you previously did out of one player illustrates the one player's value to me rather than negating it. For example, if player A produces 16 sacks, then the next year players B and C produce 9 and 7 sacks each, that tells me that if I still had player A, then players A, B, and C would likely all be more effective.

2) Who cares? Even if he peaked at 25, a player's prime is longer than one year, and anyone who would be counting on Bell for more than 3-4 years is foolish.

Sorry Dam, I see now that I wasn’t clear in my original post. Conner was generating more offense than Bell on his own, then got injured. Samuels came in next and is doing the same. They weren’t doing it at the same time. So my concern is that Bell has been easy to replace, so maybe it’s the offense, not the player.

I do care about whether he’s peaked, not because I was hoping he’d get better, but because he might not be able to deliver what we’d be expecting. We’d be paying $15M+ to a player on the downside of his career, which doesn’t seem wise to me. Take a look at the career stats of some of the great RBs and you’ll see what I mean. I had a link to an article about this in another post.

[Puck]

If it means we don’t have to rely on Mack each week sign me up

[HoosierinFL]

I have to believe there is more to it than this one incident and there is probably some truth to that report.

Supposedly he was released in Houston for behavioral issues, same in Tampa, and now Washington. He was cut in Arizona apparently for cap reasons, but it’s telling that he was among their cuts despite being a young player. He has had 4 teams in 5 years, and is looking for his fifth. Is he the only pro bowler to ever be cut mid season? There is def more to this than the one incident. And that’s enough for me to say hell no.

[FatDT]

After reading up on Swearinger I don’t think there’s any way Ballard would even consider it. Wrong mindset for this team, and not THAT good.

[Chromeburn]

Supposedly he was released in Houston for behavioral issues, same in Tampa, and now Washington. He was cut in Arizona apparently for cap reasons, but it’s telling that he was among their cuts despite being a young player. He has had 4 teams in 5 years, and is looking for his fifth. Is he the only pro bowler to ever be cut mid season? There is def more to this than the one incident. And that’s enough for me to say hell no.

Yeah, something is up there. I like the chemistry the team has currently. Don't want to throw a poison pill in there next.

[Chromeburn]

The Broncos undrafted running back made the pro bowl this year. I'm sorry, but why would the Colts sign Bell when you can get someone younger and cheaper. Like Michael of the Pats. He was the 31st pick.

Mack has done a very good job for the Colts. They have 3 guys who can play, finding another back like Mack who can also catch the ball, you have options, all of which will cost less than one Bell.

Phillips is an outlier though. He is the first to ever do it. We could spend a top 60 pick on a RB. Another guy I kind of like is Josh Jacobs of Alabama, he has been buried under the depth chart some and splits carries but he gets rave reviews by scouts who attend bama practices. He might be around that range and he would have very low mileage coming out of college.

If they signed Bell they could then use all their picks on making the defense better. I don't think there is a right way or wrong way. I do think they need another weapon on offense and some more talent in the defensive line and secondary. Just multiple ways to go about it.

I bet Tevon Coleman is released this year also, might be an option.

[DrSpaceman]

Phillips is an outlier though. He is the first to ever do it. We could spend a top 60 pick on a RB. Another guy I kind of like is Josh Jacobs of Alabama, he has been buried under the depth chart some and splits carries but he gets rave reviews by scouts who attend bama practices. He might be around that range and he would have very low mileage coming out of college.

If they signed Bell they could then use all their picks on making the defense better. I don't think there is a right way or wrong way. I do think they need another weapon on offense and some more talent in the defensive line and secondary. Just multiple ways to go about it.

I bet Tevon Coleman is released this year also, might be an option.

Dominic Rhodes was undrafted and in 2001 ran for 1000 yards in basically 10 games or so for the Colts.

Not so rare, even for this team

ALso on a side note........Rhodes only rushed for about 3200 yards in his NFL career. Thought it would be more.

And he was the United Football League offensive player of the year in 2011 for the Virginia Destroyers. They won the title that year, out of 4 teams.

[Dam8610]

Dominic Rhodes was undrafted and in 2001 ran for 1000 yards in basically 10 games or so for the Colts.

Not so rare, even for this team

ALso on a side note........Rhodes only rushed for about 3200 yards in his NFL career. Thought it would be more.

And he was the United Football League offensive player of the year in 2011 for the Virginia Destroyers. They won the title that year, out of 4 teams.

Running the ball is not the only job of a RB, especially in this offense. Multidimensional RBs are a lot more difficult to find than RBs who can run the ball well.

[Chromeburn]

Dominic Rhodes was undrafted and in 2001 ran for 1000 yards in basically 10 games or so for the Colts.

Not so rare, even for this team

ALso on a side note........Rhodes only rushed for about 3200 yards in his NFL career. Thought it would be more.

And he was the United Football League offensive player of the year in 2011 for the Virginia Destroyers. They won the title that year, out of 4 teams.


True, I'm not saying you can't find them, but that was almost 20 years ago. That is kind of rare to me. Also, Rhodes had a lot of complementary talent around him, no one was scheming to shut him down. Marvin was the juggernaut of the offense that year. We also had Wayne (bad rookie year though), Wilkins, Pathon (Mr. I have to jump when I catch the ball because running and catching at the same time is too hard), Dilger, Pollard. That was a passing offense and that is what people were trying to shut down.

This team has TY and Ebron as matchup problem players. Doyle is a good all around TE but he doesn't scare anyone. We need another weapon on offense whether that is a dual threat RB like Bell, or a second WR. Bell makes sense because we have the money and he should be a FA. There might be other RB options through FA as well. The WR FA class looks mediocre coming up and drafting a WR will take some time to develop. We could draft a RB and there are some candidates, but the class is not as good as the last couple years. Also we likely would have to use a top 90 pick on the RB if we wanted to try to find a good dual threat. That is just the basic odds of success when drafting.

We should also think about finding TY's replacement as a number 1, he will be 30 next year.

[DrSpaceman]

True, I'm not saying you can't find them, but that was almost 20 years ago. That is kind of rare to me. Also, Rhodes had a lot of complementary talent around him, no one was scheming to shut him down. Marvin was the juggernaut of the offense that year. We also had Wayne (bad rookie year though), Wilkins, Pathon (Mr. I have to jump when I catch the ball because running and catching at the same time is too hard), Dilger, Pollard. That was a passing offense and that is what people were trying to shut down.

This team has TY and Ebron as matchup problem players. Doyle is a good all around TE but he doesn't scare anyone. We need another weapon on offense whether that is a dual threat RB like Bell, or a second WR. Bell makes sense because we have the money and he should be a FA. There might be other RB options through FA as well. The WR FA class looks mediocre coming up and drafting a WR will take some time to develop. We could draft a RB and there are some candidates, but the class is not as good as the last couple years. Also we likely would have to use a top 90 pick on the RB if we wanted to try to find a good dual threat. That is just the basic odds of success when drafting.

We should also think about finding TY's replacement as a number 1, he will be 30 next year.

The point is, those are just two random examples, just off the top of our heads, of undrafted rookies that made at great in the NFL as RBs. That is not all of them.

That doesn't include any number of lower round picks that also performed great at RB.

So no, you don't need a top 90 pick at RB to find a "dual threat", necessarily. You can find RBs throughout the draft.

And needs at WR are not just as a future #1 to replace TY, but to upgrade the entire unit. Its weak overall beyond him. Would much rather use draft picks and/or money on that rather than on signing bell.

[Oldcolt]

It is absolutely correct that you can find great rb's in almost any round and including in free agency. It's just that I think the chance is much greater to find an all-pro if you sign a player that already is one. For every back who became a good starting running back as a free agent there are literally hundreds, if not thousands who did not. I would like an upgrade next year and think the chances are best by signing Bell (if his demands are reasonable). This team is on such a good trajectory that it isn't a make or break decision either way, just one way we could go.

[Chromeburn]

The point is, those are just two random examples, just off the top of our heads, of undrafted rookies that made at great in the NFL as RBs. That is not all of them.

That doesn't include any number of lower round picks that also performed great at RB.

So no, you don't need a top 90 pick at RB to find a "dual threat", necessarily. You can find RBs throughout the draft.

And needs at WR are not just as a future #1 to replace TY, but to upgrade the entire unit. Its weak overall beyond him. Would much rather use draft picks and/or money on that rather than on signing bell.

Using examples and outliers doesn't prove a point though. You have to look at the data overall from the draft and UDFA's to form an opinion. Of course, you don't need a 1st round pick to find a dual threat RB. The best odds of finding an elite dual-threat back is in the first round though. You can find depth and running back by committee guys later in the draft. For every Dominic Rhodes there is a ton of guys that don't do anything.

https://www.arrowheadpride.com/2015/2/20/8072877/what-the-statistics-tell-us-about-the-draft-by-round

This guy does a good breakdown of draft odds by position and success rate. RB's have a very high bust rate. He states:

The first round gives you a 58% chance of finding a starter followed by 25% in the second, 16% in the third, 11% in the fourth, 9% in the fifth, 6% in the sixth and 0% in the 7th.
If you rank the rounds by the total RBs drafted you find that the greatest number are drafted in the 7th, followed by the 4th, 6th, 2nd, 3rd, 1st, and 5th.

If you want a stud RB, they are likely to come from the first round. If you are looking for depth, the fourth round seems to be the place to go. This year Todd Gurley and Melvin Gordon have the first round grades based on statistics it seems likely that one of the two will be a bust. However, this could be like 2007 when AP and Beastmode went in the first round. For the Chiefs, since 2007 they have taken a RB every draft except 2010. Both Charles and Davis were the highest drafted both coming in the 3rd round.

This data only goes to 2015. If you look at the 2016 draft, you have only Ezekiel Elliot drafted high in the first. We can all agree that he is an elite back.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2016_NFL_Draft

But look at the later rounds, there are a lot of RB's drafted. Only Jordan Howard and Derrick Henry stick out to me in that list. I roughly count 22 RB's drafted in rounds 2-7 and also including UDFA's. That's a high bust rate. So you can do the top couple rounds with the best odds, or you can try a volume approach to try and find one if you want to go the draft route.

Finally, I didn't say we need to only replace TY as a number one and that is the only concern. I said we need to start thinking about it because he is getting up there. That should coincide though with trying to find a number two. Teams usually draft a WR hoping they will become a number 1 eventually. Drafting WR's is difficult as well because they also have a high bust rate.

I also said we need another offensive weapon, whether that is an elite RB, WR, whatever to attack defenses. Bell makes logical sense because of the reasons I laid out. If Bell happened to be a WR I would say the same thing. Also, there seems to be a lot more money left over to address other positions. We could sign Bell, the top FA pass rusher, and still have lots of money left over. I would rather use FA, because using draft picks on RB's is a bit harder to hit with. I would rather use the draft for young defensive players. But signing Bell doesn't mean we can't sign other players as well.

[Dewey 5]

Right now, yes please with Bell

[Luck4Reich]

"Former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne is adding fuel to the excitement of Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'veon Bell joining the Colts. ... The newest member of the Colts Ring of Honor is apparently a big Bell fan."

[FatDT]

I think the offense will be just fine with Mack/Hines/Wilkins. Mack is not a great back but he’s fine, and the OL is great, so he will put up numbers. I think we are seeing the same principle as with the old Shanahan Broncos OLs, they manufactured 1000 yard rushers like it was easy.

Then again, when they got Terrell Davis, they won 2 SBs. Mack sometimes gets 5 yards where a better back would probably get 15+. He can definitely be improved upon. He’s fine, but I would not call him the “answer” at RB.

[DrSpaceman]

When I have time I will look this up, but in regard to having a top notch running back, how many of those teams who used a first round pick on a RB or signed a big name FA RB have won a SB in the last 10 years?


Off the top of my head, I would say only Seattle with Lynch.

That is what matters most. The teams that consistently win, year after year, who are they relying on as RBs and where are they drafting them?

The majority of teams winning SBs or conference titles are not drafting RBs at the top or putting big money in FA running backs.

Again I can quote any numbers right now, but I will when I have time.

[DrSpaceman]

I think the offense will be just fine with Mack/Hines/Wilkins. Mack is not a great back but he’s fine, and the OL is great, so he will put up numbers. I think we are seeing the same principle as with the old Shanahan Broncos OLs, they manufactured 1000 yard rushers like it was easy.

Then again, when they got Terrell Davis, they won 2 SBs. Mack sometimes gets 5 yards where a better back would probably get 15+. He can definitely be improved upon. He’s fine, but I would not call him the “answer” at RB.

And where was Terrrell Davis drafted? 6th round

Also consider in terms of years of value for a first round pick or a big salary FA RB, you get probably the least time out of a RB. They have the shortest time frame as a top player in most cases, compared to WR, pass rusher, OL, QB, LB, pretty much any other position.

[Chromeburn]

And where was Terrrell Davis drafted? 6th round

Also consider in terms of years of value for a first round pick or a big salary FA RB, you get probably the least time out of a RB. They have the shortest time frame as a top player in most cases, compared to WR, pass rusher, OL, QB, LB, pretty much any other position.

You seem dead set against adding Bell. What would you do this off-season to add to the team?

[Dam8610]

You seem dead set against adding Bell. What would you do this off-season to add to the team?

Bearing in mind that there are no real quality WRs in this free agency class, the best pass rusher is likely to be Jadeveon Clowney (and even he might get franchised), and the Colts will have over $100 million in cap space, some of which must be spent.

When you consider those factors, Bell makes a lot of sense.

[Chromeburn]

Bearing in mind that there are no real quality WRs in this free agency class, the best pass rusher is likely to be Jadeveon Clowney (and even he might get franchised), and the Colts will have over $100 million in cap space, some of which must be spent.

When you consider those factors, Bell makes a lot of sense.

Ansah might hit the market. Lawrence will probably be resigned. Brandon Graham might be available. I hope we target Frank Clark of the Seahawks, if they don't franchise him.

I saw that the Bucs are up against the cap and could release Gerald McCoy. At 31 would guys be ok with signing him?

Earl Thomas should lead a good safety class. I don't know if we resign Geathers.

Also, read that Bell is on the Texans radar. Would guys be ok passing on him and seeing him sign with the Texans?


Upcoming free agent WR so far

https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/free-agents/all/wide-receiver/

You can look at RB's too easily enough

[Racehorse]

Ansah might hit the market. Lawrence will probably be resigned. Brandon Graham might be available. I hope we target Frank Clark of the Seahawks, if they don't franchise him.

I saw that the Bucs are up against the cap and could release Gerald McCoy. At 31 would guys be ok with signing him?

Earl Thomas should lead a good safety class. I don't know if we resign Geathers.

Also, read that Bell is on the Texans radar. Would guys be ok passing on him and seeing him sign with the Texans?


Upcoming free agent WR so far

https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/free-agents/all/wide-receiver/

You can look at RB's too easily enoughKeeping him out of the division is enough of a reason for me to be in favor of signing him.

[Chromeburn]

Keeping him out of the division is enough of a reason for me to be in favor of signing him.

It's definitely a reason to consider. He will be playing somewhere. Jets could be a target as well. I don't like the idea of him in the AFC, let alone our division. Him, Watson, and Hopkins would make a formidable trio.

[Thorgrim]

The free agent wr class is ugly this year so I think it must be addressed early in the draft. Bringing in Bell mitigates the need somewhat because he’s such a good receiver. You can line him up wide, put him in the slot or just let him release from the backfield. He would serve as the most dangerous checkdown threat that Luck has ever had. Throw in his excellent blocking skills as well as his undeniable skill carrying the ball and I believe you must at least meet with the guy. I would go heavy on D throughout the draft with the exception of the aforementioned wr and continue to invest in line depth on both sides of the ball in free agency. Hopefully at least one more defensive starter can be found in free agency as well.

[DrSpaceman]

Hypothetically you have a choice between Bell and Antonio Brown, who do you take?

I'd take Brown. WR units needs much more help than the RBs

[Racehorse]

Hypothetically you have a choice between Bell and Antonio Brown, who do you take?

I'd take Brown. WR units needs much more help than the RBs

Bell, but only because Brown is a "me first" diva.

[YDFL Commish]

Neither.

[FatDT]

Of the two, Bell, but “neither” is the best choice.

[Butter]

Of the two, Bell, but “neither” is the best choice.

Neither is the smart choice. AB would be a disaster in this offense. He is pissed he is not the center of the universe in Pitt, how is he going to deal with the Colts offense. Fuck that guy.

[Indiana V2]

Bell.

[Oldcolt]

It will be interesting what Ballard does. I’d like to see Bell, but I think Ballard has a specific plan in mind for building a team. I gotta trust the guy after the year he’s given me. I’m just a happy fool that we are playing football in January

[Chaka]

Also, read that Bell is on the Texans radar. Would guys be ok passing on him and seeing him sign with the Texans?

I would be delighted if any of our AFC South competitors burned $17-$20M of their cap space for each of the next 4-5 years on this guy.

[Pez]

I would be delighted if any of our AFC South competitors burned $17-$20M of their cap space for each of the next 4-5 years on this guy.Not sure about afc south, but wouldn't mind him playing for the chargers or jets or something. I honestly hope the Steelers play some sort of franchise or transition trickery and force him to play for the Steelers or sit out another year.


Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

[Chromeburn]

I would be delighted if any of our AFC South competitors burned $17-$20M of their cap space for each of the next 4-5 years on this guy.

Only if he is ineffective and doesn't live up to the contract.

[YDFL Commish]

I don't want any of the prima dona former Steelers, who have been coached and spoiled by one of the least disciplined coaches in the NFL.

There is no way they walk in and buy into a culture of accountability. They've never had to.

[albany ed]

Yeah, I'm not sure what's going on with the Steelers, but these are two of their best players, and actually, among the best players in the NFL and they want out. Great players, but not worth long term, large contracts.

[Oldcolt]

I don't want any of the prima dona former Steelers, who have been coached and spoiled by one of the least disciplined coaches in the NFL.

There is no way they walk in and buy into a culture of accountability. They've never had to.

I'm not so sure that Bell is a prima dona. He wants to work on a contract that is just not year to year. So would you if your job could be done, along with your ability to make money for you and your family's future, with one move at work. Can you show me one example of Bell not being accountable. He held out. BFD. That is the only thing a professional athlete can do to get paid. The Steelers were looking out for the Steelers financially and are home drinking eggnog today. If they paid Bell what he is worth, I'm betting they'd be playing this weekend. The guy is a stud on the field. The best runner, blocker and pass receiver in free agency this year. He would be huge in this offense. Kick those tires Ballard

[TheMugwump]

Given the choice between Bell and Antonio Brown, I'd take Brown.

He is one of the three most talented WR in the game today. Can you imagine having him on one side, TY on the other, and Ebron running free down the slot? With that type of receiver corp, along with the revamped O-line, Mack and the boys would be running against nickel packages all day long and the Colts offense would be at the top of the league alongside the Chiefs.

And I don't buy into either Brown or Bell being an issue in that locker room. The issues there are Rape-lissburger and Tomlin.

[Chaka]

Given the choice between Bell and Antonio Brown, I'd take Brown.

He is one of the three most talented WR in the game today. Can you imagine having him on one side, TY on the other, and Ebron running free down the slot? With that type of receiver corp, along with the revamped O-line, Mack and the boys would be running against nickel packages all day long and the Colts offense would be at the top of the league alongside the Chiefs.

And I don't buy into either Brown or Bell being an issue in that locker room. The issues there are Rape-lissburger and Tomlin.

Brown is 30 years old and scheduled to make roughly $20M per year for the next three years. So there's that.

Also, to me, given his recent history with the Steelers, he's more of a potential disruptive influence on team culture - though admittedly none of us know the full story on that stuff at the moment (this morning I read that his outbursts may have been triggered by JuJu Smith-Schuster getting voted team MVP - if so, wow, no thanks).

Lastly, while the dream pairings like you mention (Hilton, Brown, Ebron) always sound great in theory, they ever seem to work out like that in the real world for some reason.

[rcubed]

I'm not so sure that Bell is a prima dona. He wants to work on a contract that is just not year to year. So would you if your job could be done, along with your ability to make money for you and your family's future, with one move at work. Can you show me one example of Bell not being accountable. He held out. BFD. That is the only thing a professional athlete can do to get paid. The Steelers were looking out for the Steelers financially and are home drinking eggnog today. If they paid Bell what he is worth, I'm betting they'd be playing this weekend. The guy is a stud on the field. The best runner, blocker and pass receiver in free agency this year. He would be huge in this offense. Kick those tires Ballard
and its not even a hold out. a hold out is not showing up to honor your contract. he made a decision not to sign the franchise tag, so technically he doesnt have a contract.

[FatDT]

It's akin to signing a non-compete agreement where, if you leave your current position, you can't sign with a competitor for a certain length of time. I don't see Bell's refusal to sign the tag as a problem.

I see his prior suspensions and his desired contract as the problem.

AB on the other hand clearly is not a good fit for this locker room. Even if he was provoked by Tomlin, or Roethlisberger, his response is his choice.

[YDFL Commish]

I'm not so sure that Bell is a prima dona. He wants to work on a contract that is just not year to year. So would you if your job could be done, along with your ability to make money for you and your family's future, with one move at work. Can you show me one example of Bell not being accountable. He held out. BFD. That is the only thing a professional athlete can do to get paid. The Steelers were looking out for the Steelers financially and are home drinking eggnog today. If they paid Bell what he is worth, I'm betting they'd be playing this weekend. The guy is a stud on the field. The best runner, blocker and pass receiver in free agency this year. He would be huge in this offense. Kick those tires Ballard

He will never recover the 14 to 15 million that he would have been paid this year. He's a dumbass to think otherwise.

[Butter]

Brown is 30 years old and scheduled to make roughly $20M per year for the next three years. So there's that.
That is no accurate, that is the steelers cap hit, his salary what a team trading for him would pay is about 12 mill a year, very cheap for a top WR.



Also, to me, given his recent history with the Steelers, he's more of a potential disruptive influence on team culture - though admittedly none of us know the full story on that stuff at the moment (this morning I read that his outbursts may have been triggered by JuJu Smith-Schuster getting voted team MVP - if so, wow, no thanks).

Lastly, while the dream pairings like you mention (Hilton, Brown, Ebron) always sound great in theory, they ever seem to work out like that in the real world for some reason.

That is the kicker and why I don't want him at any price, certainly not at the cost of some decent draft picks.

[Oldcolt]

As far as Bell vs Brown that is easy. We have enough money that if we make a mistake we can recover. We don't have enough draft resources to recover if we make a mistake (at least not as easily). Bell costs only money. Brown would cost draft resources. No to Brown. Maybe to Bell.

[Chaka]

That is no accurate, that is the steelers cap hit, his salary what a team trading for him would pay is about 12 mill a year, very cheap for a top WR.

You're correct - thanks for the clarification Butter

[DrSpaceman]

I would not be upset or say it is wrong to sign Bell. He would certainly be an upgrade for the RB position.

I just think their are bigger needs on the team

And I would not give him much guaranteed money beyond two years. RBs fall off quickly in this league

[Oldcolt]

I would not be upset or say it is wrong to sign Bell. He would certainly be an upgrade for the RB position.

I just think their are bigger needs on the team

And I would not give him much guaranteed money beyond two years. RBs fall off quickly in this league

I agree totally with one caveat. I think he is the biggest addition you could make, right now, thru free agency. Bigger needs? Hell yes. If a rush lineman becomes available, throw the money there. But if not, that money sitting in Irsay's vault won't sack one qb or catch one td. Spend it.

[Chromeburn]

I would not be upset or say it is wrong to sign Bell. He would certainly be an upgrade for the RB position.

I just think their are bigger needs on the team

And I would not give him much guaranteed money beyond two years. RBs fall off quickly in this league

A year off can do a lot for an NFL player. Especially a running back.

As for Brown, he would likely cost a 1st round pick. That seems to be the price this year. So no to that. Also lots of negative comments and articles about his behavior and attitude. He called Ryan Clark a racial name apparently after his comments as a reporter on ESPN. I would not want him in my locker room. Great on the field, every where else sounds like a headache.

I doubt he would want to come here though. He would be second to TY. Sounds like he needs to be the man.

[Dam8610]

A year off can do a lot for an NFL player. Especially a running back.

As for Brown, he would likely cost a 1st round pick. That seems to be the price this year. So no to that. Also lots of negative comments and articles about his behavior and attitude. He called Ryan Clark a racial name apparently after his comments as a reporter on ESPN. I would not want him in my locker room. Great on the field, every where else sounds like a headache.

I doubt he would want to come here though. He would be second to TY. Sounds like he needs to be the man.

Brown sounds like a perfect fit for Dallas or Cincinnati.

[Pez]

Brown sounds like a perfect fit for Dallas or Cincinnati.

Brown should go to the Browns, just because dad jokes..... Bell should go to the Bengals, as that would keep them from cutting Dalton for 2-3 more years.