The Pittsburgh Steelers and running back Le'Veon Bell were not able to come to terms to a long-term contract extension before the 4 p.m. deadline on Monday, meaning Bell will play on the $14.5 million franchise tag.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport first reported the news, saying it is likely that Bell will not "show up for a while."
Earlier on Monday, ESPN's Adam Schefter said it is possible bell sits out for as much as half the season.
"I think it's possible Le'Veon Bell sits out the first half of the year if he doesn't get a long-term deal done," Schefter said.