Free agent running back Le’Veon Bell admitted that he smoked marijuana before NFL games.
Bell, who last played in the NFL in 2021, opened up on the “Steel Here” podcast, which focuses on the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Bell played for Pittsburgh from 2013-17, then sat out the 2018 season amid a contractual battle with the team.
“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).”
When Bell finally left the Steelers, he played for the New York Jets in 2019 and two games in 2020.
The Jets’ coach at the time was Adam Gase, who came under criticism from Bell on the podcast.
“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, 31, added that Gase was “terrible” at calling plays.
