Le'Veon Bell has described being named as a co-starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers as "good motivation".

The running back, who was a second-round draft pick earlier this year, is yet to play for the Steelers, having missed the pre-season game against the New York Giants at the weekend.

The 21-year-old told the team's website: "I feel good about my work and I am going to just continue to work the best that I can, keep competing. That is all I can say.

"It's good motivation. I am going to keep striving to be the best I can be. I came here ready for competition and I am going to continue to compete and do the best I can.

"I came a long way. I think I am going to continue to get better, but I have a lot more to work on. That is all I can do. There is nothing magic I have been doing, just staying in the film room and working hard."

Bell will start alongside Isaac Redman against the Washington Redskins on Monday evening.