Jets could trade Le’Veon Bell at deadline if they’re out of contention?
The New York Jets have admitted in the past that they have not completely ruled out trading Le’Veon Bell, but they appear to be committed to the star running back heading into 2020. Depending upon how the team performs, that could change rather quickly.
Bell averaged a measly 3.2 yards per carry last season, but the Jets have revamped their offensive line this year and are hoping that helps both Bell and Sam Darnold. They also signed veteran Frank Gore, who could lessen Bell’s workload. However, if Bell gets off to the same type of start this season that he got off to in 2019, the trade speculation could finally become a reality.
ESPN’s Rich Cimini believes the Jets are likely going to shop Bell at the trade deadline this season if they are out of playoff contention. Although, trading him could be easier said than done. Bell still has three seasons remaining on the four-year, $52 million contract he signed with New York over a year ago. There have been some concerns about his conditioning and explosiveness, so he may not be an appealing trade target if he looks sluggish again.
Bell has gone out of his way to downplay the supposed issues he was having with Jets head coach Adam Gase. We know that winning in the NFL is the ultimate cure, so things will probably be fine between the two if the Jets get out to a hot start. If not and Bell is perceived to be part of the problem, he is almost certain to be shopped on the trade market.
