Jets React To Le’Veon Bell Trade Deal
The Jets reacted to Le’Veon Bell trade deal talks this past week by essentially shutting down the very suggestion of them.
It was a surprising reversal from the lukewarm endorsements that Bell has been given to date by management and the coaching staff.
Last year, on the heels of getting a brand new contract from New York, Bell put up some of the worst numbers of his career.
Over the course of 15 outings, he recorded three touchdowns and 789 yards on a measly 3.2 yards per attempt. He was an absolute disaster on the ground.
Bell also did not fare much better as a receiving threat. He ultimately recorded 461 yards and on 66 catches and struggled to be an impactful contributor in any legitimate capacity.
Throughout the season, Bell’s struggles were attributed to a number of factors. Everything from him being out of shape to head coach Adam Gase under-utilizing him to the Jets’ horrendous offensive line were cited as potential causes.
At the end of the day, while it is unclear why Bell performed so poorly in 2019 – it is undeniable that he did.
Joe Douglas says there’s been no talk of trading @LeVeonBell pic.twitter.com/gXTXA5bqTq
— Jets Videos (@snyjets) February 25, 2020
That led many to wonder if perhaps the three time Pro Bowler was on borrowed time in New York. Rumors ran rampant regarding a possible trade, and Gase did not do much to shut them down following the end of the regular season.
This week, Jets general manager Joe Douglas appeared at the NFL Scouting Combine. While there, he spoke on Bell’s future with the organization.
According to Douglas, there has been “no talk” of moving the 28-year-old.
“There hasn’t been talk as far as him going anywhere,” Douglas said.
“We’re excited about Le’Veon. Le’Veon has been a great teammate. I can’t tell you how great he’s been.
“I had a great conversation with him at the end of the season. I know he’s been working hard down in Miami. I know he’s excited to get back. We’re excited to have him.”
The reality is that despite Douglas’ statement, Bell could still be moved at any time. Chances are the team will give him a chance to prove himself a worthy complement to quarterback Sam Darnold early next year. But if he fails to do so again, odds are he is probably getting shipped off elsewhere.
Related: Marshawn Lynch Returning To Seahawks In 2020?
Charles Kruger has been credentialed to cover two Super Bowls, four NBA Finals, and one World Series. A 20-year veteran in the sports world, he has sources spanning the NBA, MLB, NFL, UFC and NASCAR. Currently residing in Los Angeles, Calif., he is Game 7’s go-to source for rumors surrounding the Lakers, Clippers and Dodgers.
