Steelers GM disappointed with Le'Veon Bell's absence

Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert released a statement Monday addressing the absence of running back Le'Veon Bell, who has yet to sign his one-year franchise tag and rejoin the team.

"We are disappointed Le'Veon Bell has not signed his franchise tender and rejoined his teammates. Coach Tomlin and the coaching staff will continue to focus on preparing the players on our roster for our regular season opener on Sunday against the Cleveland Browns," Colbert said.

The three-time Pro Bowler still hasn't signed the franchise tag that was applied to him in early March. The one-year tender would pay Bell $14.54 million for the 2018 season.

Bell assured Steelers fans shortly after receiving the tag that he wouldn't sit out the season even without a long-term deal. The 26-year-old previously said he could retire if the team doesn't offer a contract to his liking.

It's the second consecutive year the Steelers have used the tag on Bell. He didn't sign last year's tender until Sept. 4, six days ahead of Pittsburgh's Week 1 game. In that game he carried the ball just 10 times for 32 yards, adding three receptions for 15 yards.

The star back seemed to refute a report last week that he had told some teammates he'd be reporting on Labor Day.

The Steelers will visit the Cleveland Browns on Sunday afternoon to begin the 2018 season, with or without Bell.

Sophomore James Conner and rookie Jaylen Samuels are listed second and third, respectively, on the team's official depth chart.

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