https://steelersdepot.com/2018/11/ho...as-a-receiver/
The Steelers have effectively replicated Bell’s pass catching ability with Conner and wide receiver Ryan Switzer. Not only has the duo’s on field production surpassed Bell’s but it has been a cost-effective move as well. While Bell was scheduled to make $14.544 million this season, which has now been forfeited entirely, Conner and Switzer have matched, if not surpassed Bell’s production for just $1.3 million combined.
As a receiver, Bell’s role in the offense is to be a reliable dump off option for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and to move the chains, that is to produce first downs. In 15 games last season, Bell recorded 85 receptions, with 32 of those receptions earning the Steelers a fresh set of downs. Through nine games this season, Conner and Switzer have almost matched Bell’s total for receptions that move the chains and over a 15-game projection (the same amount that Bell played in 2017), the duo are projected to blow past the running back in all major receiving categories.
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