The Facts: Bell is the only player on the 90-man roster absent from Steelers' organized team activities. They are voluntary for any player, but particularly so for Bell who is not under contract because he has not signed the franchise-tag tender presented to him early this spring. Antonio Brown stays in touch with his teammate and friend, Bell -- even if the latter is not training with him at team headquarters this month. "I tell him how his (rap) tape is not that good," Brown said, smiling. "(And) how he should come out here (to Pittsburgh) and (practice) with me."

Diehards Line: Although the circumstances were different, Brown recently went through a protracted period of disagreement with the Steelers over contract terms. He, however, did not have any extended absences from offseason or training camp practices. Brown remains supportive of his teammate, saying of Bell: "He's an individual, he's a professional, he's got to do what is professional for him and his family." Brown said he understands and empathizes that Bell is approaching his business, well, like a business. Bell made $12.1 million last season under the franchise tag after his four-year rookie contract had expired. Under the collective bargaining agreement when the Steelers tagged him again for 2018, the required 20 percent raise equates to $14.52 million. Barring a long-term deal, expect Bell to stay away from the team through training camp.