Newly-signed New York Jets running back Le’Veon Bell believes he’s the No. 1 running back in the league going into 2019.
Say what you want about Le’Veon Bell, but you can’t knock his confidence.
This offseason, Bell signed a new four-year, $52.5 million deal with the New York Jets. The Pro Bowl running back will play this year for the first time since 2017. He missed the final year of his deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers due to a contract dispute.
Speaking with Bryant McFadden of CBS Sports HQ this week, Bell portrayed his confidence regarding his on-field talents.
“I mean, everybody’s going to have an opinion on what type of back they want [but] I believe every [general manager] in this league considers me a top-three running back in the league. I mean, me personally, I feel like I’m the best running back. There’s nothing I can’t do.
“I feel like I’m the best pick-up blocker, hands down. Running routes? I feel like I run routes like a receiver. I literally watched one of the greatest receivers ever run routes for five years in Antonio Brown, and now I get to come out here and watch other guys like [Jamison Crowder] — I only learn.
“I only get better. And reading between the tackles? I don’t think anyone can really understand the way I run between the tackles, and that’s why it looks so different. I understand the plays different from everyone else.
“Everybody can’t do it.”
As far as what he can do on the field, Bell hasn’t disappointed since entering the league in 2013. He’s been selected to the Pro Bowl three times and has been a First-team All-Pro twice.
In his last season playing with Pittsburgh (2017), Bell averaged 4.0 yards-per-carry with 1,291 yards and nine touchdowns. He additionally racked up 85 receptions for 665 yards and two touchdowns through 15 games.
Bell should become a huge weapon for Jets head coach Adam Gase in 2019 along with assist quarterback Sam Darnold in elevating his game.
