For Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell, the suspense won’t drag into game day.
Bell was officially ruled out by the team on the final injury report released by the Steelers prior to Saturday’s playoff matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
The second-year pro hyperextended his knee Sunday night after taking a hit from Cincinnati Bengals safety Reggie Nelson and it was immediately thought that Bell would be out for at least a week.
Bell was walking better at the Steelers practice facilities on Wednesday, but as of Friday afternoon still was unable to test it out during practice.
His absence means that rookie Josh Harris will likely get the start and we should see more of rookie Dri Archer as well. Harris and Archer have combined for only 56 yards rushing on the season.
Newly signed Ben Tate could also figure into the mix.
While the Steelers may be able to piece together a rushing attack Saturday night, where Bell will be missed the most is as a pass catcher out of the backfield and more importantly as a blocker as Harris and Archer both struggle badly picking up blitzes.
If the Steelers advance, it remains to be seen if Bell will be able to go the following week when the Steelers would travel to Denver.
Bell gained 1,361 yards rushing this season on 290 carries and caught a franchise-record 83 passes for 854 yards.
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