Memories don't have to reach far back—just to last September and October, when Lance burst onto the scene. The league propped him up, thrusting this rookie into the spotlight and triggering a storm of controversy. Along with admiration and jealousy came disdain and exclusion.
In the NFL, status isn't earned through hype or political correctness. It must be fought for—game after game, yard by yard.
Now, with the Super Bowl in the rearview and the offseason in full swing, Lance again finds himself in the spotlight. But this time, the atmosphere has shifted. Whether it's supporting Bell or appearing on the Forbes list, positive voices and recognition are steadily increasing.
This means Lance has finally carved out his own place through action, not hype.
It also signals a new reality: next season, Lance won't enjoy the benefits of being a rookie or an underdog. Opponents will bring their best, with game plans crafted specifically to stop him. The real test begins now—
Many rookies face this very challenge. Their first season is often aided by unfamiliarity and being underestimated. But come sophomore year, teams are prepared. Adjustments are made. And suddenly, the advantage is gone. Performance often dips dramatically.
This is the "Rookie Wall."
So, is Lance about to hit his?
A new challenge begins.
On the Chiefs' side, offseason training, adjustments, and team chemistry are progressing smoothly.
After starting QB Alex Smith was traded, the reigning champs quickly settled in. With Lance's help, the offense found rhythm fast, signaling the start of the Mahomes era.
Elsewhere, NFL headlines remained turbulent.
Two of the league's biggest stars found themselves in contract deadlocks: Bell and Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Unlike Bell, Rodgers' negotiations were hindered by injury concerns.
In 2017, Rodgers missed most of the season due to multiple injuries. Though not technically season-ending, they were close. The Packers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008, raising doubts within the team.
Yet Rodgers held firm. As one of the league's elite QBs, he felt no reason to compromise, especially after seeing Cousins and Smith secure massive contracts.
Negotiations dragged on.
Amid swirling speculation through training camp and preseason, just days before the new season's kickoff—when Packers fans were nearly hopeless—good news arrived on August 29:
The Packers and Rodgers finally reached a deal—a four-year, $134 million contract. It set a new NFL annual salary record, marking the league's official entry into the $30 million per year era—roughly $33.5 million annually.
It was a long and painful process, lasting over six months. But the result was widely celebrated.
Now, every QB awaiting an extension is sharpening their knives.
But for Bell, the situation took a different turn.
After voluntary spring training, mandatory summer camp began. Bell announced he would once again skip camp.
Last year, he refused to sign the exclusive franchise tag contract, holding out. Eventually, the Steelers talked him into returning.
This year? The same standoff, only more resolute. No elaborate statements—just a clear and firm stance.
Though the media shouldn't be surprised, a subtle tension was in the air.
The Steelers gave no official response, but star wide receiver Antonio Brown made his opinion clear in an interview.
Last year, Brown also sought a big contract and re-signed with the team. But for him, holding out was never an option.
"To get better, you have to show up. Not training only hurts everyone."
"If you want to show you want to be here for the long term, then come to camp. Show your commitment."
Clearly, the Steelers' two stars weren't on the same page.
Maybe the team remained silent officially, but Brown's words seemed revealing. Naturally, speculation arose that Brown's stance mirrored the organization's. Things looked bad for Bell.
July 16 is the NFL's franchise tag deadline. Unless a deal is reached by then, Bell will be forced to play the season under the tag.
Bell declined interviews.
He clearly wasn't comfortable dealing with the media. If misquoted or misinterpreted, it could only worsen the situation.
Unexpectedly—but fittingly—Lance did not shy away from the press.
"…In my view, it's unfortunate—for both sides."
"A great player can't make his own decisions. His voice is ignored. His demands rejected. His value dismissed. He might've led the team to greater heights with his talent, but now, it's all uncertain."
"Clearly, there's an issue here worth deeper reflection."
Concise, yet impactful.
Lance didn't pit running backs against quarterbacks or other players or teams. He focused solely on Bell, painting a picture of a potentially great legacy now derailed, and—without naming names—he roped in the Packers' negotiation saga with Rodgers, subtly pointing the finger at the league itself.
At the rules.
The NFL has changed its rules repeatedly to maximize ratings and advertising. The ripple effects have hurt players across positions.
But really, it didn't have to be this way.
Lance's comments again ignited discussion. Social media lit up. Fans of all stripes rallied behind Bell.
Ironically, it wasn't Bell's teammate Brown who supported him—it was a rival, Lance, who showed true sportsmanship and perspective.
Last season, Brown re-signed and aligned with the team. But did he really believe Bell's plight wouldn't ever befall him?
For now, Brown seemed to think so.
Then—
Lance received a text from an unknown number:
"Thanks, man.
Still fighting. Not backing down. Sick of this crap. I need them to hear me—and to hear the other RBs too.
I won't surrender.
Le'Veon."
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Powerstones?
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