Big Ben said he texted Bell before Tuesday’s 4 p.m. reporting deadline but didn’t hear back. By not showing up, Bell forfeited the 2018 season, and $14.5 million in earnings on the franchise tag, in an effort to preserve his body for unrestricted free agency.
Roethlisberger isn’t judging Bell for his decision to leave behind his salary and a potential Super Bowl run by the Steelers (6-2-1).
That’s where the insight on Bell stopped, as Roethlisberger made it clear that he wanted to move on from the conversation.
Bell and Roethlisberger shared a backfield for five seasons. The least Bell could do is text a brother back.
#Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, on Le’Veon Bell: “The thing about it is he’s not here. … So we don’t talk about it. I texted him yesterday before the deadline texting him I was hoping he was going to show up, and if not I wish him nothing but the best.” Bell did not text back.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 14, 2018
Roethlisberger said his sole focus is Sunday’s game against Jacksonville. This is why Big Ben is a winner.
