Arguably one of the best running back in the NFL last season, Le’Veon Bell will start the 2015-2016 season on the sidelines for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The league has suspended and fined the back for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
The ban comes after Bell pleaded guilty for driving under the influence and marijuana possession from an incident last August with teammate LeGarrette Blount. He received 15 months probation for being a first time offender, which is why the NFL proceeded to discipline him after his his court ruling and sentence.
Bell will appeal the decision, but might still miss time regardless. He is the workhorse back in the Steelers lineup and clear No. 1, rushing for 1,361 yards and scoring eight touchdowns last season and being the second-leading rusher in the entire NFL. Pittsburgh missed him dearly in their playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens when he was out with an injury, so that goes to show how much he means to the offense. Not to mention the fact he was their second-leading receiver as well.
The Steelers signed DeAngelo Williams to compliment Bell in the backfield heading into next season and he will be carrying the load during Le’Veon’s suspension.
[Source]