Le'Veon Bell is staring at the possibility of missing the first three games of the 2015 NFL season.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that the Pittsburgh Steelers running back is facing a three-game suspension and a fine of an additional game check for violating the NFL Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse, per a source informed of the process. ESPN first reported the news.
Bell has been officially notified of his punishment and will appeal his suspension, per Rapoport.
The news of Bell's suspension came two days after currentNew England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount was suspended one game.
The two backs were charged with marijuana possession prior to the 2014 season. Bell was also arrested on DUI charges.
Bell was sentenced in February to 15 months probation in a first-offender's program stemming from the incident.
Bell became the NFL's most versatile back in 2014. The shifty, patient runner compiled 1,361 yards rushing and 854 yards receiving in 16 regular season games. The Steelers sorely missed Bell in a playoff loss to the Baltimore Ravens after the running back injured his knee in the season finale.
To stem the tide during Bell's time on suspension, the Steelersadded veteran running backDeAngelo Williams in the offseason. The hope is that Pittsburgh can ride Williams enough early in the season while they wait for Bell to return to the field.
When Bell does return in Week 4, his wallet might be lighter and stats down a bit overall this season. However, we expect him to retake the reins as the full-time workhorse in the Steelers' backfield and not miss a beat in his third season.
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