Le’Veon Bell exploded for more than 2,000 total yards last season, but the Pittsburgh Steelers running back doesn’t want to call it a breakout year.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Michigan State product believes he’ll be even better during the 2015 campaign.
“A lot of people talk about the season I had last year. They call it a breakout season, but I don’t look at it like that. I look at it as me just getting started. … I still feel like I can do a lot of things better. Last year wasn’t even close to me being my best.”
Bell racked up 1,361 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground, adding 83 receptions for 854 yards and three more scores. He helped Pittsburgh finish with the league’s No. 2 offensive unit—and it would’ve been No. 1 if the unit had gained a mere six more yards.
Per Fowler, Bell cited improved quickness as a preeminent reason he feels significant improvement is coming this season.
“I watch myself now and I look at last year like I wasn’t really quick. Feels like it was [slow motion]. I’m a lot quicker, a lot more explosive now.”
The third-year back might not eclipse his raw 2014 numbers since he’s suspended for two games after being arrested for marijuana possession. However, Pittsburgh’s offensive line should be more consistent this season, and Bell can be used more as a receiver—yes, even after tallying 83 catches.
Bell’s 2015 debut is slated for Sep. 27 against the St. Louis Rams at 1 p.m. ET.