The New York Jets have released running back Le’Veon Bell.
What We Know:
- Bell’s short stint in New York has come to an end. The Jets signed him to a four-year $52.5 million deal in March of 2019 and the fit was just never right. Bell’s production in 17 games with the Jets has been a dropoff from his several 1,000-yard rushing seasons with the Steelers and the Jets haven’t won a game yet this season, starting 0-4.
- According to general manager Joe Douglas, the decision was made with Bell and his representation after several trade options were explored and fell through. Bell is guaranteed $27 million and he only rushed for 863 yards and three touchdowns with the Jets.
- It’s also been well documented that Bell never fit with head coach Adam Gase. It was reported that Gase was not a fan of Bell’s signing in the first place, thinking it was too much money to give to a running back. Bell also liked several tweets that were critical of Gase’s coaching strategy and how he used Bell on offense.
- It’s unclear which team will pick up Bell since no one was willing to trade for him. Even though his time with the Jets was disappointing, there’s still the belief that he can come close to his All-Pro form. Some teams that could be interested in his services are the Bears, the Patriots, and his former employer – the Steelers.
- The Bears are 4-1 and the second-best team in their division. The Bears are on track to make the playoffs and could use someone to bolster their running attack and fill the role of Tarik Cohen, who is out with a torn ACL.
- The Patriots have widely been known to take on castaways from other teams and find success with them. It’s foolish to doubt coach Belichik at this point and pairing Bell with Cam Newton could help New England reach the playoffs.
- Bell signing with the Steelers seems like a longshot because that bridge might be burnt. But, Bell proved that he was a good fit on the team before and they might be able to get him for less money. Bell is a versatile running and passing option and could help the 4-0 Steelers with their Super Bowl chances.
Pretty much all optimism for the Jets has vanished at this point. With Sam Darnold out with injury and them blowing the Le’Veon Bell situation, it’s hard to tell where the Jets will go from here.
