Former All-Pro RB claims he smoked marijuana before NFL games

Former NFL running back Le’Veon Bell admitted to smoking marijuana before NFL games.

Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell appeared on the ‘Steel Here‘ podcast last week, admitting that he smoked marijuana before NFL games. Bell was an elite runner during his time in Pittsburgh, when he was drafted in the second round out of Michigan State.

“Looking back on this, that’s what I did,” Bell said. “When I was playing football, I smoked, bro. Even before the games, I’d smoke and I’d go out there and run for 150, two [touchdowns].”

However, Bell eventually left the black and gold, instead signing a huge free-agent contract with the New York Jets. At the time, that looked like a rather bold decision for the Jets, and it didn’t pay off. Bell had missed the entire 2018 season due to a contract dispute with the Steelers, and they didn’t budge, instead playing Pitt product James Conner and a host running backs by committee.

Le’Veon Bell smoked marijuana before NFL games

During his time with the Jets, Bell noted how different the culture in Pittsburgh was in comparison under Mike Tomlin.

“Bro, we get to New York, and that’s when you instantly find out that head coaches make a huge difference,” Bell said. “As soon as I get to New York, I find that out like the first week. … Bro, the team wasn’t that great, don’t get me wrong, but I feel like if Coach [Mike] Tomlin [of the Steelers] was coaching that team, we win nine games at least. It’s to the point where [ex-Jets quarterback] Sam Darnold don’t even know like the actual line’s protections because he’s so confused about our offense because the coach is confusing him.”

Bell also said that Gase was terrible at calling plays. The Jets ended up moving on from Bell just two games into his second season in New York. Gase, meanwhile, was fired after just two seasons as well.

You can’t coach culture.