Mike Tomlin Denies Reports that Steelers Tried to Trade for Le’Veon Bell

PITTSBURGH — Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin denied persistent rumors that his team inquired about brining running back Le’Veon Bell back to Pittsburgh.

Moments after his team’s narrow victory over the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Tomlin was asked if those reports were true.


“Not to my knowledge, no,” Tomlin said.


That comes in spite of several national reports that the Steelers did, in fact reach out to the New York Jets amid concerns that the shoulder injury to running back James Conner may be more serious than originally anticipated. Even Bell himself told reporters in New York that his agent had been in contact with the Steelers.

Conner did not dress against the Colts, and according to ESPN, may also miss next Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams. Tomlin did not provide an update on his status.

“I will give it to you guys on Tuesday in terms of what next week looks like and further discussions regarding him,” Tomlin said. “I’m sure there is an update, but I am not privy to it as we lean in on game time. I am focused on the guys who are playing.”


Conner’s absence was exacerbated by the loss of Benny Snell to a multi-week knee injury. After a season high in rushing yards for Conner in Week 8 against Miami, the Steelers’ running game was bottled up on Sunday.

Jaylen Samuels started and had just 10 yards on eight carries. Trey Edmunds had a greater workload running the ball, carrying 12 times for 73 yards.

Samuels was a significant contributor in the passing game, making 13 catches for 73 yards.