NFL: Bell on negotiations:”Significantly closer than last year”.

For the first time in a long time, Le’ Veon Bell gives the Pittsburgh Steelers hopes for an early agreement. The Running Back did not disclose any details after the Pro Bowl training on Wednesday, but said that he was “happy” with the Steelers’ offer.

“We are much closer than we were last year,”Bell told ESPN,”The Steelers and I are happy with the way things are. Of course, we’ll have to go a little further in order to close the deal.”

Last year, Bell refused a long-term contract and was tied up via a $12.1 million franchise day. Another day would cost the franchise $14.5 million, but Bell mentioned earlier this month to consider suspending the season if he had to play under one day again.

“I don’t want to repeat the drama of last season. I want everyone to be happy and that we can start the new season without distraction.”