The 2018 NFL season has been filled with big-time players making big-time plays. A lot of big name rookies have been called to the field to create their legacy.
With all that going on, the biggest buzz going around the league is Le’veon Bell holding out. While everyone was expecting Bell to arrive at the Pittsburgh Steelers facility ready to go for their season opener, Bell had other intentions. Seeking a long-term contract, Bell has chosen to hold out.
“To all my Steeler fans, my desire always has been to retire a Steeler…both sides worked extremely hard today to make that happen, but the NFL is a hard business at times…to the fans that had hope, I’m sorry we let you down but, trust me 2018 will be my best season to date…” Bell said.
The Steelers’ final offer to Bell was five years, $70M with more than $30M over two years. Last year, the offer was five years, $60M. Instead, Le’ Veon will earn $14.5M on another franchise tag. With Bell holding out his teammates and other players around the league have spoken out on the situation.
Maurkice Pouncey starting Center for the Pittsburgh Steelers said, “Honestly it’s a little selfish. I’m kinda pissed right now, it sucks that he’s not here, but we’ll move on as a team. It doesn’t look like he’ll be in the game plan at this point.”
Being a football player, I would expect my teammate to show up despite the off the field issues with his contract. I think we all are entitled to coming to work every day ready to work.
“If I were in the situation where my teammate did not participate and held out against playing I’d be upset because although he has the right to do so, I believe it is selfish to not be a part of your team and help reach the common goal that everyone shares. Playing football is your job; your efforts and focus should be put towards your job despite not receiving a certain amount of money that you desire.” Darius Rodrigue, a computer information systems major said.
There is a similar situation across the league with Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas. Thomas is seeking a long-term contract like Bell. The only thing that’s different in their situations is that Thomas decided to participate in games only this season despite holding out all summer and preseason.
Two weeks ago, Earl Thomas suffered a season-ending injury to his broken left tibia. Prior to the injury, Thomas had a stellar game against the Dallas Cowboys. As Thomas got carted off the field he gave his sideline the middle finger. Some say Thomas should have held out this season like Le’veon Bell, but he decided to play. This leaves a lot of questions in the air such as will he bounce back to full health. Will a team take a chance with him now after coming off a serious injury like that?
Thomas and Bell’s situation may differ a little, but the moral of the story is that they are both pro bowl players who seek a long-term deal they deserve. Is holding out the best solution? In my opinion, I don’t believe it is for the player nor the organization. The objective for teams is to win and wins are harder to come by when key players are holding out.
Le’Veon Bell is expected to report to the Steelers facility during their week 7 bye. Earl Thomas will undergo the road to recovery to prepare for his comeback.