Le'Veon Bell Accused of Racial Bias in Steelers Contract Claims

Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell has accused the team of racial bias, claiming they do not pay Black draft picks as well as their White counterparts. Bell made these remarks on X (formerly Twitter) following the trade of cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who is Black, after a contract dispute. Bell also referenced wide receiver George Pickens in his post, suggesting a pattern of underpayment for Black players, while acknowledging T.J. Watt's contract as an exception.

However, an examination of the Steelers' contract history and player compensation suggests a different narrative. Bell himself was drafted by the Steelers in the second round in 2013. After three seasons exceeding 1,000 rushing yards, the team offered him a five-year contract worth $70 million prior to the 2018 season. Bell ultimately turned down this offer, reportedly seeking greater financial guarantees, which led to his departure from the team.

Critics of Bell's claims point to the Steelers' coaching staff and front office, which have included prominent Black figures and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Mike Tomlin, who coached the Steelers for 19 seasons until his departure this year, is Black. The current general manager, Omar Khan, is of South Asian and Hispanic descent. Furthermore, the team's highest-paid players include White players like T.J. Watt and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, whose compensation is attributed to their performance and position.

The data indicates that many of the Steelers' highest-paid players are Black. Following Watt and Rodgers, the team's next seven highest-paid players are Black, and nine of the top ten are Black. Players like wide receiver DK Metcalf, defensive back Jalen Ramsey, linebacker Patrick Queen, and receiver Michael Pittman have all received significant contracts from the Steelers. These players, who were not all drafted by the Steelers, have been compensated well.

Bell contended that his assertion applies specifically to players drafted by the Steelers. However, players drafted by the team, such as running back Jaylen Warren, defensive lineman Keeanu Benton, and tight end Darnell Washington, have all received substantial contracts. Additionally, defensive lineman Cam Heyward, drafted in 2011, has had his contract renegotiated and extended multiple times, reflecting his value to the team. Heyward is Black.

The commentary surrounding Bell's statements also includes criticism comparing NFL draft narratives to the slave trade, which some analysts have called illogical given the voluntary and lucrative nature of professional sports.