The Facts: Bell does not plan to attend the Pittsburgh Steelers' organized team activities, which begin Tuesday, according to a source.
Diehards Line:
This move was expected as Bell remains unsigned after the team franchise tagged the All-Pro back for the second consecutive year. Last season, Bell stayed away from the team until September after both parties failed to reach a long-term agreement by the July 15 deadline. This year, Bell has threatened to miss games or even retire short of an extension, a stance he has softened in recent months. Bell could earn $14.5 million on the tag, which he considers his contractual floor for a per-year payout on a long-term deal. The Steelers have until July 16 to agree to a deal with Bell, who turned down an offer from the team this offseason. Bell's career average of 128.9 yards per game is the highest ever for a running back over the first five years of a career.