While Le’Veon Bell‘s first season in New York has been a disappointment, the running back isn’t looking to leave the Jets after only one season. Bell told ESPN’s Rich Cimini that he’s committed to the organization and intends to be back in 2020.
“I wouldn’t have signed here for four years if I didn’t want to be here four years,” Bell said.
“When I did sign here, I didn’t expect us to go 16-0, you know what I’m saying? I knew it would be a process. I understand everything. We got a young quarterback, a whole group of guys coming in — new offensive coordinators, head coaches. … I understand what goes on. It’s not like basketball. You can’t take one or two guys and change a team.”
After sitting out the 2018 season, Bell inked a lucrative $52.5MM deal with the Jets this past offseason. The 27-year-old has proceeded to put up some of the worse numbers of his career; in 14 games this season, Bell has ran for only 748 yards and three scores on 229 carries, good for a career-low 3.3 yards per carry. He’s also hauled in 61 receptions for 425 yards and one touchdown, his lowest totals since 2015.
There were whispers that head coach Adam Gase wasn’t a fan of the Bell signing, and with a new front office, it’s been assumed the Jets will shop the veteran this offseason. Bell is set to make a fully-guaranteed $13.5MM next year, making a trade difficult (it also makes cutting Bell all but impossible).
There could be some reasons for optimism in New York. Sam Darnold took a step forward during his second season in the league, the Jets are 5-2 over their last seven games, and the team will be armed with another high first-rounder. Bell’s also aware of these positive factors, so he’s willing to be patient when it comes to team success.
“I’m a guy that is extremely patient, not just on the field,” Bell said. “I understand it takes a while to build a stable program. I’m here for it. It’s what I want to do. I’m not saying I’m ecstatic about it. I’m not saying I’m down about it. I understand it’s a process, getting things going in the right direction.”
Sure he does … he also thought Steelers wanted him back lol. He’s only after the money enjoy playing on a awful team. Jets have sucked for as long as I’ve lived and always will!
This season has been proof that Bell didn’t make the Steelers, the Steelers made Bell. He was a “great” RB only because of his OL in Pittsburgh. Without them, Bell’s average abilities are laid bare.
Hell, I’m not even sure he’s average this year. He ruined my fantasy team several weeks.
Same with mine. He and Beckham were early round picks for me. Brutal.
The Steelers systems make average/good RBs into great ones. See Willie Parker.
Have you ever considered that a RB can have a running style that requires a good oline? Bell is a patient runner that waits for his oline to create holes for him to run through. If his oline is one of the worst in the league, why should anyone expect his numbers to be good?
Its a team game, in case you forgot.
Just like how the steelers made James Connor right lmao
Lol!
Seems like he was trying to force his way out just before the trade deadline.
Probably see him change his tune 3 or 4 times once the jets season is over.