Bell's replacement, Larry Foote, lacks Bell's size, quickness and explosiveness off the snap, but has been a steady, season-long contributor to the AFC's top-ranked defense. Even if Bell had been ready to play in Saturday's divisional playoff game against the Jets, he wouldn't have started.
Now, a player who figures to attract plenty of interest as a free agent during the offseason seems to be wondering if it's worth the risk trying to play again this season.
Like Jets defensive end John Abraham, who has been out for five weeks with a knee injury, Bell realizes that he might be giving away millions if he tries to play while hurt.
"I understand where he's coming from," Bell said. "When you get injured and you've got nagging injuries, injuries can cause other injuries because you're not yourself. I can see where his concern is as a free agent. He doesn't want to put himself out there 75 percent, and jeopardize getting injured and losing out for a good contract."
As a result, Bell's once-outstanding career in Pittsburgh is likely down to its final few weeks. With the 6-foot-1, 257-pound Bell likely to attract more money on the open market than the Steelers are willing to pay him, they may try to sign the less-expensive Foote and let Bell walk.