Steelers hopeful of re-signing Bell

As the calendar turns to March, time is running out for the Pittsburgh Steelers to re-sign star running back Le'Veon Bell.

But the Steelers are hopeful they will be able to reach an agreement with Bell before the franchise tag deadline on March 6, the last day to use the tag for the 2018 season.

Pittsburgh general manager Kevin Colbert told reporters Wednesday that the team is "(trying) to figure out common ground" with Bell's representatives at the NFL Scouting Combine.

If the two sides are unable to reach a deal, franchising Bell would cost nearly $14.5 million for 2018. Bell earned a base salary of $12,120,000 last season after the Steelers placed an exclusive tag on him.

Bell, 26, will be entering his sixth NFL season in 2018.

The two-time first-team All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler has rushed for 5,336 yards and 35 touchdowns over 62 games. His TD total ranks third on the Steelers' all-time rushing scores list and his yardage total ranks fourth.

Last season, Bell rushed for 860 yards and eight TDs in 13 games.

Both the Steelers and Bell have publicly stated that they would like to see the running back retire with the team.

--Field Level Media