Steelers' Coach Mike Tomlin said "don't be surprised" to see rookie running back Le'Veon Bell get snaps with the first team on Saturday night when the Steelers open the preseason against the New York Giants at Heinz Field.
Tomlin has been pleased with Bell's progress so far in camp, and he is expected to share some of the snaps in the short time the starters are on the field, as well as see action throughout the game.
"We are going to play the one's 10-12 snaps. Don't be surprised if you see Le'Veon getting some snaps with those guys," said Tomlin. "I think he has earned that. I think how he is running the ball speaks for itself.
"Don't be surprised to see him getting some snaps after those guys are out of the game as well. He, like a lot of guys, we need to get a lot of exposure to."
Tomlin gave no other indication of how the running backs will be used, and it's still a battle for the starting job with Bell, Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer. Tomlin said the way Redman and Dwyer have responded to the competition from Bell is what he expected.
"I don't think their response is anything unusual," said Tomlin. "Every year guys come into camp and those that are returning are pitted with new people vying for jobs, new guys that are capable of seizing roles and competing for work. They respond in the way professionals should. They are competing and it's bringing out the best in them."
All four quarterbacks are expected to play on Saturday night, but that could change with the way the game unfolds and how aspects like time of possession play out. Tomlin also said all healthy bodies are expected to play.
