All-Pro running back Le'Veon Bell did not report to the Pittsburgh Steelers to sign his franchise tender by the 4:00pm deadline Tuesday and is now ineligible to play at all this NFL season.
Bell passed on $14.5-million in 2018 by electing not to sign his franchise tag -- the second straight season the club placed the tag on him, preventing him from becoming a free agent.
The 26-year-old will now prepare for his long-awaited free agency, where he'll be the top running back available.
In his five seasons in Pittsburgh, Bell has been selected to three Pro Bowls and named to the All-Pro team twice.
Bell has finished three of the past four seasons ranked among the top five in rushing in the league.