The Steelers had yesterday off after last Thursday’s win over Carolina, and when they take the field Sunday afternoon at Jacksonville, it does not appear that there will be anyone wearing number 26. According to NFL sources, Le’Veon Bell is not expected to report to the Steelers by tomorrow’s deadline, making him ineligible to play this season. By refusing to sign a one-year franchise tag offer, Bell is leaving $14.5-million dollars on the table. He’s hoping to become an unrestricted free agent after the season.
The Steelers gained ground in the AFC North yesterday when the Saints routed the Bengals. Pittsburgh is 6-2-and-1. Cincinnati is now 5-4, the Ravens are 4-5 and the Browns, who upset Atlanta yesterday, are 3-6-1. Baltimore had its bye week this weekend.
The Steelers have won five in a row. Jacksonville is on a five-game slide after losing to Indianapolis 29-26 yesterday. The Jaguars are 3-and-6 overall. They beat the Steelers twice last year, including a playoff game at Heinz Field.
