Adam Gase has remained adamant that the Jets will be cautious when dealing with Le’Veon Bell’s usage during training camp and throughout the preseason.
That said, it’s uncertain whether Bell will suit up for the Jets’ preseason opener against the New York Giants on Thursday.
“It’s a fine line with him,” Gase told reporters on Tuesday. “He hasn’t played in a year. At the same time, when is the right time? Is it this game? The next game?
Gase is confident that Bell will be comfortable with whatever decision team officials decide to make before Thursday’s game.
“The one conversation we had about [playing in the preseason], he goes, ‘Whatever you tell me you want to do, that’s what we’ll do.’ So, he’s been outstanding in that area,” Gase said.
There may not be a right time to play Bell in the preseason, but it seems the second or third preseason game may be better suited for Bell. Thus far in camp, Bell has looked like his old self, showing flashes of brilliance and exemplifying how he can be used as a weapon in Gase’s offense.
Bell hasn’t played in a preseason game since 2016. He did not participate in preseason games the past two seasons due to contract disputes with the Pittsburgh Steelers. From 2014-16, Bell had a total of 41 touches in preseason action. If he does play, it may be for only a couple of series to keep him fresh and see game action before Week 1 of the regular season.
