Pittsburgh Steelers free agency 2018: Top 5 targets

1. Le’Veon Bell

You had to know Le’Veon Bell would be coming on this list. Last, but certainly not least, Bell is the one target the Steelers can’t let go heading into 2018.

While Dion Lewis provides an intriguing option for the Steelers’ backfield if he ends up leaving the Patriots this offseason, no one can compare to Le’Veon Bell in the NFL at his position. He’s been a superstar for the Steelers on a consistent basis, and he simply can’t be stopped at times with his cuts and speed out of the backfield.

Bell helps the Steelers in so many ways, whether it’s running the ball, catching screens or even just in the play-action game. He opens up so many options for the team’s offense, and gives Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown some room to mess around when defenses bite on the run with Bell on the field.

Next: 30 richest players in the NFL

Sure, Lewis or another back could slide into the line-up with relative ease for the Steelers. However, Bell is a once-in-a-lifetime type of player, much like Brown is in the passing attack. It’s been a struggle to get anything done with Bell as far as contracts are concerned, but he’s worth the effort.

Bell’s looking for a ton of money, and it’s time for the Steelers to open up the checkbook and pony up the cash. Bell is worth it all, and he’s a key piece to any postseason hopes for the Steelers. At the same time, the Steelers can’t afford to have to game plan against him in 2018, and that certainly has to be on their mind this offseason.