Bell confident he'll reach deal with Steelers: 'We're working on it'

Though a deal hasn't yet been struck between Le'Veon Bell and the Pittsburgh Steelers, the star running back told NFL Network he's optimistic a long-term contract will get hammered out.

"We're working on it. We're a lot closer than we were last year at this time, that's what I'm happy about," the three-time Pro Bowler said. "But none of that matters if we don't get it done. So, hopefully, we'll try to get something done and that's what I'm looking forward to. I got confidence we'll get it done, I want to do it."

Bell isn't currently under contract, but the Steelers kept him from becoming a free agent by placing the franchise tag on him for a second straight year. The 26-year-old previously suggested he'd rather retire than play on another one-year deal like he did a season ago.

And while he's hopeful a deal with Pittsburgh will get done, he cautioned that he's prepared to skip training camp and preseason games - if not more - should the long-term contract continue to elude him.

"I don't want to have the replications of what happened last year, but if that came down to that, obviously I got to do what I got to do," he said. "Take my stand and protect myself. I don't want to have to do that. I want to go to camp and play for the Steelers long term."

Bell is believed to be seeking $17 million annually in contract negotiations. If he signs the franchise tag, he'll be guaranteed $14.5 million in 2018.

Bell rushed for 1,291 yards and nine touchdowns last season, adding 655 yards and two touchdowns receiving.