Le'Veon Bell Works Out in Miami Rather Than Attend Steelers Offseason Training

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell is reportedly working out in Miami rather than attending the team's voluntary offseason workouts while seeking a long-term contract extension.

On Wednesday, ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler reported Bell isn't expected to take part in team activities after the Steelers placed the franchise tag on him for the second straight year, but he "plans to workout rigorously over the next few months, most likely on his own."

The update doesn't come as a surprise. Bell hasn't signed the franchise tender, which is a one-year deal worth $14.5 million, per Spotrac.

In March, he told Andrew Unterberger of Billboard he's hopeful the sides can reach an agreement on a multiyear extension before the July 16 deadline. If not, he's not sure how he'll proceed.

"But obviously, when the end of July comes, wherever we're at…if I sign, everybody'll be happy, but if not, I guess I gotta play it by ear," Bell said. "If I'll be out till Week 1, if I'll be out till Week 10, or if I'm gonna be out there at all. It depends on how I feel at that time and moment."

The 26-year-old Michigan State product is coming off another terrific campaign for the Steelers. He racked up 1,291 rushing yards, 655 receiving yards and 11 total touchdowns.

Bell posted those numbers despite not signing the franchise tender until Sept. 4, six days before the team's season opener against the Cleveland Browns. Another extended holdout could be on the horizon if a new contract isn't in place by July 16.

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh might look to bolster its backfield depth in the draft. James Conner, Stevan Ridley, Fitzgerald Toussaint and James Summers are the only other backs on the roster.