Report: Steelers 'Actively Shopping' All-Pro Running Back Le'Veon Bell

Bell last suited up for Pittsburgh in January's playoff loss to Jacksonville.

The Steelers are "actively shopping" Le'Veon Bell per the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, aiming to deal the disgruntled running back who will sit out his fourth-consecutive game on Sunday night.

Opposing teams won't be able to get Bell on the cheap, though, as Rapoport reported on Sunday morning that Pittsburgh wants "at least a second-round pick and a good player" in exchange for the three-time Pro Bowler. 

From @gmfb Weekend: The #Steelers are now activately shopping RB Le'Veon Bell, sources say, making calls and doing due diligence. A trade would be difficult, but not impossible. pic.twitter.com/EltwpqYrNs

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 30, 2018

Pittsburgh has yet to find a team willing to meet its high asking price. Bell will be a free-agent at the end of the season, limiting his value on the trade market. 

A trio of teams have emerged as potential landing spots for Bell per CBS Sports' Jason LaCanfora. The Eagles are reportedly interested in Bell, while the Jets and 49ers have "also made exploratory calls." Pittsburgh is also open to trading Bell for Seahawks safety Earl Thomas per LaCanfora, though the two squads have yet to discuss a potential deal. 

Eagles, and others, have interest in Bell; Steelers would be open to a Bell for Earl Thomas swap: https://t.co/5dBGEAeQZa

— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) September 30, 2018

The Michigan State product has sat for the Steelers' first three contests of 2018 as he seeks a new contract. Bell will forfeit $853,000 for each game he misses. 

Pittsburgh's offense hasn't slowed down without Bell, though, averaging over 29 points per game en route to a 1–1–1 record. Bell's replacement James Conner has rushed for 213 yards and three touchdowns on 54 carries.  

Bell led the league in carries in 2017. He  tallied 1291 yards and nine rushing touchdowns.