Steelers RB Le'Veon Bell gets 15 months probation after pot charge

Steelers All-Pro running back Le'Veon Bell received 15 months of probation stemming from a DUI arrest in August.

Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro running back Le'Veon Bell has received 15 months of probation stemming from a DUI arrest in August.

Bell was charged with possession of marijuana and driving under the influence after he and former Pittsburgh Steeler LeGarrette Blount were arrested Aug. 20 outside of Pittsburgh on their way to an airport to leave for a preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. They were booked after an officer stopped them and smelled marijuana coming from their vehicle.

Both players admitted to buying and smoking some of the marijuana, and Bell said that he “didn’t know that you could get a DUI for being high" when told he would be charged.

Bell, 22, will enter the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition program for nonviolent, first-time offenders and have his license suspended for 60 days. Bell can asked the court to have his arrest record expunged upon completion of his probation.

Bell’s lawyer told the Associated Press that his client still could face discipline from the NFL for violation of the league’s personal conduct policy.

Blount was released by Pittsburgh in November and signed with the New England Patriots, helping them to a Super Bowl title. Blount had his marijuana possession charge dismissed after completing community service.

Bell rushed for 1,361 yards and eight touchdowns last season and also had 83 receptions for 854 yards and three scores, earning his first Pro Bowl berth and receiving first-team AP All-Pro honors.

- Scooby Axson