Report: Steelers yet to hear from Bell despite RB's plan to return

Despite reports that Le'Veon Bell is planning to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers during the Week 7 bye, team officials have yet to hear from their star running back, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Similar to last season, Bell has kept the Steelers in the dark, with no contact with officials or players.

The All-Pro rusher could return any time between Monday, Oct. 15 and the following Monday, Oct. 22, Schefter added.

Bell has refrained from signing his one-year franchise tag thus far, but he reportedly does intend to play in 2018 once he finally inks the deal. Pittsburgh, meanwhile, is said to be actively shopping their productive ball-carrier.

The 26-year-old must be signed for at least six games to accrue the necessary service time to become a free agent at the end of the year. He's staying away from the team to reduce the risk of injury before free agency.

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