Le'veon Bell is finally done in Pittsburgh.
The 26-year-old running back is signing a $52.5 million, 4-year deal with the New York Jets. It comes with a max value of $61 million and includes $35 million in guarantees. ESPN's Adam Schefter broke the news.
The deal averages $13.1 million per year, the second most ever by a running back. Ram's superstar Todd Gurley set the record in 2018 with a deal averaging $15 million per year, while Cardinals David Johnson earns $13 million.
Bell made it clear he would play for the highest bidder. But having reportedly refused a five-year, $70 million contract last year because it only had $33 million in guarantees, this looks like Bell's market wasn't what he hoped. The star sat out last season at a cost of over $14 million.
Landing Bell is a massive boost for an offense that desperately needs playmakers. Bell is a two-time first team All-Pro selection and will completely change how opponents prepare for 2018's 4th-worst offense. Uniting the generational talent with quarterback Sam Darnold gives the signal caller more time to make reads and opens up the play book.The signing could be a bargain for New York.
Bell is sure to garner *massive* attention. Pittsburgh refused to commit to him because of the lack of durability at the running back position historically. The last running back to hit free agency after an All-Pro year - Demarco Murray - retired aged 29. (Learn all about that and Pittsburgh's decision here.)
With a year of recovery behind him, Bell is finally set to return to the field. Everyone will want to see how the biggest signing of free agency plays surrounded by the weakest supporting cast he's had to date.
The Le'veon Bell saga is over.
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