Steelers rookie RB Le’Veon Bell sidelined for preseason opener

Le'Veon Bell was expected to play with the Steelers' first team on Saturday, but was sidelined due to knee soreness. (Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

Pittsburgh running back Le'Veon Bell was sidelined before the Steelers' Saturday night opener against the New York Giants. Bell has been dealing with a left knee injury that also forced him to miss a practice last Saturday. The injury is considered a minor concern.

Bell was expected to run with the starters in Saturday's game before getting sidelined. Coach Mike Tomlin said Thursday that Bell had earned the right to play among the starters in preseason. From The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette report:

"Don't be surprised if you see Le'Veon getting some snaps with those guys," Tomlin said. "I think he has earned that. I think how he is running the ball speaks for itself.

The Steelers reportedly want Bell to be a three-down back, and the Post-Gazette considers him a legitimate contender to start the season.

Pittsburgh will use a committee of Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer in Bell's absence.

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