First Martavis Bryant, now Le’Veon Bell? The Steelers high-powered offense could be taking another hit, as ESPN’s Dan Graziano is reporting that running back Le’Veon Bell is facing a four-game suspension for a missed drug test.
Sources close to the situation tell me Steelers RB Le’Veon Bell is facing a four-game suspension for violation… https://t.co/6CWpS45NSm
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) July 22, 2016
ESPN’s Adam Schefter also posted on Twitter that it is over a missed test, citing Graziano.
Steelers RB Le’Veon Bell facing a four-game suspension for violation of the NFL’s drug policy, per @DanGrazianoESPN. It’s over missed test.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 22, 2016
In his post on ESPN.com, Graziano made it clear that it is for a missed drug test, not a failed drug test, writing that it hasn’t been announced yet because the appeal process is still going on.
Graziano goes on to say that the hearing will likely be held prior to the beginning of the season, and unless it is overturned, Bell will miss the first four games of this season.
That would be two consecutive seasons where Bell would serve a suspension, as he served two games – reduced from four – last year after being arrested for possession of marijuana and DUI in 2014.
In six games last year, Bell amassed 692 all-purpose yards, with three rushing touchdowns on 113 carries before missing the remainder of the season with knee injury.
If Bell should miss the four games, expect backup running back DeAngelo Williams to shoulder the bulk of the load for the Steelers.
