Report: Bell, Steelers have made some progress on long-term deal

The Pittsburgh Steelers and running back Le'Veon Bell have made some progress in extension talks, but it's uncertain whether they're close enough to cross the finish line before the buzzer sounds, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

The two sides have until Monday - the deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign new contracts - to strike an agreement. If they fall short, Bell won't be able to play the 2018 campaign on anything other than the one-year tag for a second straight season.

Bell previously expressed optimism that they'd be able to agree on a new contract, avoiding a repeat of last year, when Bell waited until the beginning of September to sign the tag and report to the team.

The 26-year-old rushed for 1,291 yards and nine touchdowns last season while again providing excellent value in the passing game. He's ranked among the top five in NFL rushing yards in three of the past four seasons.

During negotiations last offseason, Bell rejected an offer worth $42 million over the first three years of a long-term deal.

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