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Le’Veon Bell Explains Why He Skipped Mini Camp

(Photo by Peter Aiken/Getty Images )

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Recently-signed New York Jets running back Le’Veon Bell decided skip out on the first major opportunity to bond with his new teammates.

Bell was absent from the team’s “voluntary” workouts last month, but claims that his absence was simply him sticking to a “formula.”

When asked by a fan on Instagram why he wasn’t showing up to practice, Bell promised big things “when it’s time to play football.”


“I got to stick to the formula that I know works for me,” Bell said. “I’ll take the heat right now, everybody will forget about that once January comes around.”

One of the most talented running backs in the NFL, Bell signed a contract worth $52.5 million over four years with the Jets in March. (RELATED: Le’Veon Bell Doesn’t Attend Voluntary Workouts With The New York Jets)

Bell spent the first six years of his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers before his time there ended unceremoniously when he decided to sit out the entire 2018 season after his contract demands weren’t met.

KANSAS CITY, MP - JANUARY 15: Running back Le'Veon Bell #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers tosses the ball forward after gaining a first down against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 15, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)

Running back Le’Veon Bell #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers tosses the ball forward after gaining a first down against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 15, 2017 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)

You would think that after sitting out an entire year and finally getting the massive contract he desired, Bell would be eager to get back out on the field. Think again.

I don’t know Bell’s mindset, but stories like this have to make you wonder how much he truly loves the game of football.

Jets fans have to hope that Bell is focused on returning to form, because they are stuck with him for a long time either way.

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