The Pittsburgh Steelers are winless to start the season and searching for answers as the head to London to play the Minnesota Vikings. The offense has failed to get anything going in both the run and pass game. In an effort to get the season's first win, rookie running back Le'Veon Bell will suit up for the first time after suffering an injury in the preseason.
Pittsburgh initially predicted Bell would be out at least 6-8 weeks after being diagnosed with a Lisfranc injury suffered against the Washington Redskins. He progressed quicker than expected. Instead of holding Bell out through the upcoming bye week, he will be on the field come Sunday. Jay Glazer of FOX Sports made the first report of the running back's health.
As of now, the Steelers rank 31st in rushing. They are averaging a mere 51.7 yards per game so far this season. Felix Jones was signed to take over for Bell and so far he has put up 71 yards on 17 touches. Head coach Mike Tomlin had remained heavily complimentary of Jones, but now his status with the team remains uncertain with Bell back in the fold.
"The running game was below the line," Tomlin said, via the team's website. "But I was encouraged by Felix Jones and what he'll be able to do moving forward. He knew when to bounce it and when to put his foot in the ground and get vertical. There were some things we can build upon."
The Steelers run game is non-existent this season. Any help is needed in Pittsburgh so whatever Bell can give will help put some life back in the offense. The Steelers drafted Bell in the second round of the 2013 draft and he was expected to be the top workhorse in the backfield. He looked promising in practice as the Steelers were expected to name him the starter until he suffered the foot injury in his second preseason appearance.
As of now, the Steelers have been relying on Jones, Jonathan Dwyer and Isaac Redman. Combined the three running backs have put up 124 yards on 40 carries. They are averaging 3.2 yards per rush and it is not getting the job done. Fantasy owners should consider the fact the Bell is coming back from injury and might be limited in his first game. If healthy, he will be the primary ball carrier, but that might not happen this week.
