The Steelers have released former Lions running back Greg Bell as part of their final roster cutdowns on Tuesday, the team announced.
Bell joined the Steelers on August 1st after the season-ending shoulder injury to Alfonzo Graham. He showcased his receiving ability and quick shiftiness in training camp, rising up the depth chart to the fourth running back by the end of training camp. Bell should return to Pittsburgh on the practice squad if he clears waivers.
Bell came out of San Diego State and had a stint in 2022 with the Detroit Lions. But was injured and suffered a hamstring in training camp. He would return for 2023, but the team waived him on July 22nd. Over his college career at three different stops, Bell racked up over 4,000 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns. In his final season with the Aztecs, he posted over 1000 rushing yards with the team.
Bell could not spark much offense in his three games with the Steelers during the preseason. On 18 rushes, he notched only 34 yards for 1.9 yards per carry. However, Bell did power 31 yards after contact, showcasing his contact balance and ability to create even with his subpar blocking for most of the preseason. That tracks for Bell, who proved over the course of his college career that he could find hidden yardage.
Pittsburgh kept three running backs on their final 53-man roster in Najee Harris, Jaylen Warren, and Anthony McFarland. McFarland ran away with the RB3 job after a strong training camp and preseason. Bell and Xazavian Valladay providing a good battle down the depth chart behind McFarland, and both could find their way back to the practice squad. Bell plays on special teams units as well, totaling 12 snaps overall, but 10 against Tampa Bay. So, he could certainly have more utility in that area than just as a running back.
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