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Ron Cook: It's not surprising but disappointing that Le'Veon Bell and Steelers failed to reach a deal

Count Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis among those disappointed that Le’Veon Bell failed to reach a long-term deal with the Steelers before the 4 p.m. deadline Monday.

“Hey, Le’Veon. Please sign,” Bettis told NBC Saturday at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe, pretending to speak to Bell. “We need you.”

I’m disappointed, too.

Not surprised, but disappointed.

I admire Bell’s belief in himself, his commitment to his principles and his conviction to turn down a contract offer that easily would have made him the NFL’s highest-paid running back. He wanted more — at least more guaranteed — because he’s convinced he’s just as valuable as a receiver as he is as a back.