Amid a disappointing first season with the Jets, Le'Veon Bell nearly found himself back in Pittsburgh where his career began.
According to ESPN, which cited unidentified sources, the Steelers feared running back James Conner's shoulder injury suffered during Monday's win over the Dolphins was possibly serious and "jumped into the discussions" to potentially acquire Bell.
The report noted other teams that inquired about Bell include with Texans, Chiefs and Packers.
The rumors come after Bell mentioned last week on The Uninterrupted's "17 Weeks" podcast that his agent made it clear the Steelers were "in the mix of trying to trade for me."
Bell, who sat out all last season amid his contract dispute with the Steelers, has 108 carries for 349 yards and a score while also adding 32 receptions for 187 yards and another touchdown on the season for New York.
As for Conner, the Steelers' young star not expected to play Sunday against the Colts after being listed as doubtful with a shoulder injury and is also in jeopardy of missing Week 10 against the Rams.
Conner had his arm in a sling after leaving the team's win over the Dolphins when he appeared to land awkwardly on his shoulder on a tackle just before the two-minute warning. He has 97 carries for 380 yards and four touchdowns this season o go with his 29 catches for 236 yards and two scores.
The Steelers (3-4) host the Colts (5-2) at 1 p.m. ET, while the Jets (1-6) visit the winless Dolphins (0-7) at 1 p.m. ET.