Former Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets running back Le’Veon Bell admits he smoked marijuana before some NFL games.
“That’s what I did,” Bell told Barstool Sports' Friday "Steel Here" podcast. I smoked, bro. I smoked before games and ran for 150 yards and two touchdowns.
Bell was suspended twice for NFL substance misuse while playing for the Steelers. In 2013, he joined Pittsburgh and became a dynamic and productive player.
Bell, a Steelers backfield dual threat, was a one-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowl pick. After renouncing the franchise tag for a second year, he missed the 2018 season.
Bell told the show the Steelers wanted to guarantee only his first year of a prospective agreement, but he wanted more.
Bell agreed that the guarantee was petty. “Damn, did I really just eat it? Yes, probably. Could've eaten it.”
The next offseason, Bell signed a four-year, $52.5 million contract with the New York Jets, with $35 million guaranteed.
He was discharged midway through the 2020 season after two dismal years with the Jets. On the podcast, the running back called then-New York coach Adam Gase a "terrible" play caller.
“Bro, we get to New York, and you instantly find out that head coaches make a huge difference,” Bell added. “I discover that the first week in New York.”
After the Jets, Bell played for Kansas City, Baltimore, and Tampa Bay. He caught 399 receptions for 3,289 yards and nine touchdowns and ran for 6,554 yards and 42 touchdowns.
Bell stated he hasn't retired from football despite not playing last season and trying professional boxing.
He told the podcast he'd like to retire with the Steelers but wants a few preseason carries "so I can show y'all" he can still play.