Steelers owner not concerned over Le'Veon Bell's absence

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell recently stated his plans to skip training camp and report to the team in time for the regular season after being franchise tagged for the second year in a row.

Although this marks the second consecutive season Bell has missed training camp, Steelers owner Art Rooney is not concerned.

"We went through this last year," Rooney told NFL Network's Judy Battista Saturday. "And when Le'Veon got here, his commitment to the team is as good as ever so expect the same thing when he gets here this year. Of course, I hope he gets here a little earlier; we'll see."

Rooney did express disappointment in Bell's contract situation, but empathized with the All-Pro running back.

"Le'Veon is a professional," Rooney said. "We're disappointed we weren't able to come to an agreement but that's the business side of football. Respect his position, no hard feelings. We just like to get him here as quickly as we can and get him started."

Related: 5 teams that should be lining up bids for Le'Veon Bell in 2019

When asked if he thinks 2018 will be Bell's last season in Pittsbugh, Rooney claimed the team will focus on a new contract after the upcoming season.

"I'm not going to say that (Bell is entering is final season as a Steeler)," the owner said. "We'll revisit his contract after the season. Who knows? There's a lot of miles to travel between now and then and hopefully a lot of good miles on the football field for Le'Veon."