The former Pittsburgh Steelers star running back, Le’Veon Bell, has made headlines once again. Bell not only announced his intention to make a comeback in the world of football but also made a bold statement regarding his views on former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker, Vontaze Burfict.
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Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell lays on the ground after getting hit by Vontaze Burfict
Steelers' Bell Wants To Return To Pittsburgh In 2024
Bell's announcement regarding his return to football sent shockwaves through the NFL community. The running back, who previously played for the Steelers, declared that he would only consider playing for one team. This news, coupled with his desire to step back onto the football field, captured the attention of fans and pundits alike.
In an unexpected turn of events, Burfict, the former Bengals linebacker, found himself in the spotlight while streaming video games with a popular content creator known as Sketch. During their playful banter, Sketch made a jesting remark, claiming that Burfict had inspired him to hit players after the play. Burfict's response, however, took a surprising and controversial turn as he confessed that he had only resorted to such actions against the Steelers.
Bell wasted no time in responding to Burfict's revelation. Taking to Twitter, Bell expressed his strong disagreement with Burfict's claims.
“lol that’s cap .. he played dirty against errrrryyyyybody.”
This candid response shed light on the intense rivalry that had developed between the two athletes over the course of their careers. The rivalry between Bell and Burfict was not one born out of competition but rather a series of intense battles on the football field. Bell started boxing after his NFL career ended and even challenged Burfict to a boxing match.
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Former Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell fought former Minnesota Vikings running back in a battle in the ring between former First Team All-Pros.
One particular play during the 2015 season had far-reaching consequences for Bell and the Steelers. Burfict's tackle on Bell led to a devastating MCL tear, causing the star running back to miss a significant portion of the season, playing in just six games.
It's worth noting that the play that resulted in Bell's injury did not appear to be a malicious act by the standards of what football fans had come to expect from Burfict. However, over the course of his career, Burfict had built a notorious reputation as one of the NFL's dirtiest players. During that play Burfict did grab Bell's leg a little bit more than he should have. He also got up and appeared to be celebrating the injury.
His on-field actions had earned him severe fines, suspensions, and the reputation as the villain of the Bengals. If you were a fan of the Bengals you loved Burfict but it you were a fan of any other team you may have thought he was a disturbing player.
Despite the challenges Bell faced towards the end of his NFL career, he remains hopeful of a comeback. Now approaching his 32nd birthday in February, Bell believes he still possesses the skills and determination required to contribute to a football team at the professional level. His departure from the Steelers to join the New York Jets was marked by a desire for a more lucrative contract, a decision he has expressed regret over in the past.
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Steelers Le'Veon Bell scoring a touchdown
If Bell were to make a return, it could offer the Steelers a valuable and cost-effective addition to their roster. Under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who favors a physical style of football, Bell's versatility could be an asset.
While the Steelers' running back room is well-stocked with talent in Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren, Bell's potential comeback is a fascinating prospect. After a couple of seasons away from the game, if his body has recuperated and he can provide even 50% of his former prowess, it might be a worthwhile investment for the Steelers.
Bell's announcement of his comeback to the NFL and his candid response to Burfict's claims have reignited interest in the storied rivalry between these two athletes. As Bell prepares for a potential return to the football field, fans and pundits will be watching closely to see if he can recapture the magic that made him a star during his time with the Steelers.
In the realm of professional sports, where unpredictability often becomes the norm, it may seem improbable for the Steelers to consider bringing Bell back into their roster. However, it's crucial not to underestimate the potential of a resolute veteran athlete who has had the opportunity to recuperate and recharge for several years. Bell's last NFL appearance dates back to 2021, and while his return may be more of a fantasy than anything, the world of sports has witnessed unexpected comebacks that defied initial expectations. You truly never know.
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