Mike Tomlin remains optimistic about the possibility of the Pittsburgh Steelers agreeing upon a long-term deal with Le'Veon Bell.

"Obviously, we want to get a deal done, he wants to get a deal done. Everybody has said that," said Tomlin, who returns to his hometown of Hampton, Virginia, every summer for the camp. "Now it's just about the negotiators getting into a room and doing what it is they need to do. I'm excited and hopeful. Hopefully we'll have some exciting news before Monday."

Sources tell Adam Schefter that it will be challenging for Bell and the Steelers to reach agreement. 

Tomlin expressed similar optimism before last year's deadline, when the Steelers failed to sign Bell and didn't see him until training camp ended. Bell signed his $12.12 million tag on Sept. 4.