Pittsburgh Steelers RB Le'veon Bell Suspended Three Games, Fined

The Pittsburgh Steelers will be without their star running back for their first three games of the 2015 season. The suspension is for violating the NFL substance abuse policy.

The suspension is stemming from an incident in August 2014, where Bell and his then teammate LeGarrette Blount were arrested. The two were pulled over in Ross Township when the officers smelled marijuana inside the vehicle and upon searching, they found a small amount of the drug inside the car.

 According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Pro Bowler was indeed suspended and fined, although he can apeal the decision in accordance with the CBA.

Pitt RB LeVeon Bell suspended 3 games, fined additional game check for violating substance abuse policy, per league sources. He is appealing
-- Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter)

Bell was also charged with a DUI in the incident which explains why his suspension is heftier than Blounts:

Pitt RB LeVeon Bell suspended 3 games, fined additional game check for violating substance abuse policy, per league sources. He is appealing
-- Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter)

Outside of the NFL punishment, Bell was placed on probation for 15 months.

In 2014 Bell was a standout playmaker for the Steelers, racking up 2,215 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns. Bell was a key component in getting the Steelers into the playoffs, despite a knee injury in week 17 that contributed to their loss to Baltimore in the Wildcard round. 

DeAngelo Williams is expected to step in as the starter, although his lackluster 2014 campaign will put pressure on Ben Roethlisberger's passing game.