This Steelers-Jets Trade for Le'Veon Bell Could Actually Work

Please don't barf, please don't barf. It makes more sense that you think, but you'll have to stick with me.

Le'Veon Bell has not been a fit with the New York Jets. Bell bolted Pittsburgh after sitting out a full season and hasn't looked the same sense. But, if we're being honest with ourselves, neither have the Steelers, and it's not all due to injuries.

Why relive those memories when they can be our reality?

Bell and the Steelers haven't fully reconciled, but the Michigan State product has, in his own way, realized his mistakes. The bridge was burned, but rebuilt partially among the fanbase with spare parts made from comments to the media and on Twitter to fans that spoke positively of his time in the Steel City. Bell's been humbled, despite the checks he continues to rake in thanks to an unwise investment by Woody Johnson. 3.2 yards-per-carry behind a disastrous offensive line will do that to a man.

James Conner's been excellent in the Steelers' offense, but he's a different style of back, and Pittsburgh could use another reliable target out of the backfield in the passing game. If this really is Roethlisberger's last run (or second-to-last, if you're feeling generous), loading up at the position is a necessity. Conner's a free agent next year. Why draft for depth when that same pick can net you a former Pro Bowler who has experience in your system?

The largest obstacle in the way of such a surprising move is cap space, which the Steelers have relatively little of. To prove me right, and keep the pitchforks from my front door once this mini-apocalypse ends, the Jets must take on the majority of Bell's remaining cap hit. Bell could, also, restructure his contract, but given his deteriorating value that seems unlikely. At 28, he doesn't have many years left in his prime. The time is now to cash in, as there's not another rich contract looming.

In order to match salaries and give the Jets a bit of relief, the Steelers should trade their only wonky contract -- Ben Roethlisberger (kidding)! In all seriousness, the redundant Vance McDonald deal (a $7.9 million cap hit in 2021) could be out the door following the addition of Eric Ebron.

Taking all of this in mind -- and assuming the Jets will meet my expectations financially -- the Steelers should offer up a third-round pick for Bell. If that's not enough, a 2021 sixth-rounder could also help entice them. Such a move allows the Jets to bolster their offensive line in the draft to protect Darnold, or perhaps surround him with the weapons he needs, a definition which Bell proved not to fit.

Okay, now you can yell at me.