Le’Veon Bell has some explaining to do. The Steelers running back’s missed drug test was more than just a one-time bout of forgetfulness, it turns out Bell has missed several tests in recent months, according to Ian Rapoport.
Rumors circulated that Bell missed tests earlier this summer, but the running back quickly denied this by going on the record to say he has never missed or failed any drug tests. So either Bell was stretching the truth, or he has changed his personal policy regarding these tests since June. In any event, Pittsburgh is almost assuredly out its best running back for the first four games of 2016.
Bell is appealing his suspension, but in light of the recent updates to his situation his chances of winning the appeal just got a lot slimmer. One missed test could be easily explained away by forgetfulness or miscommunication, but any more than that and the benefit of doubt shrinks drastically.
DeAngleo Williams proved a capable back-up in Bell’s absence last year, but when he is healthy and playing Bell is arguably the best back in the league. The Steelers’ potent offense is already without wide receiver Martavis Bryant for all of 2016 thanks to similar drug-related issues, so this Bell news hits even harder.
