NFL Rumors: Jets, Bears, Raiders Linked To Le'Veon Bell, Running Back's Contract Demands

The biggest question in 2019 NFL free agency has revolved around Le’Veon Bell. He’s arguably the best running back in the league and looking to make a lot of money after sitting out the entirety of last season.

It’s been speculated for months that the teams with the most salary cap space would make a play for Bell. That’s not entirely the case, however, with teams like the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans looking to spend their money elsewhere.

The New York Jets have the second-most money to spend, and they are considered to be the favorites to sign Bell. New York is looking to land a star playmaker to start alongside quarterback Sam Darnold in his second NFL season.

The Oakland Raiders have been linked to Bell. Oakland already made the biggest splash of the offseason by trading for Antonio Brown, and there are rumors that the Raiders could try to also land his former teammate with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Chicago Bears might be the dark-horse candidate in the race. Chicago hasn’t been viewed as a likely landing spot for Bell, given their running back situation. The team already has Jordan Howard and Tarik Cohen on the roster, but rumors that team is fielding offers for Howard could mean the Bears will be making room for Bell.

After holding out last season, Bell is expected to sign with the team that offers him the most guaranteed money. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the 27-year-old is hoping to make between $15 million and $16 million per year.

Todd Gurley signed a four-year, $57 million contract with a $21 million signing bonus last year. David Johnson received a $12 million signing bonus and $31.8 million guaranteed from the Arizona Cardinals.

Bell sacrificed $14.54 million by holding out in 2018.