Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell, Detroit Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah, Los Angeles Rams safety Lamarcus Joyner and Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence all failed to sign long-term extensions with their respective teams, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Barring any significant changes in contract negotiations after the 2018 season, these four superstars will headline a stacked 2019 free agent class. All four are among the best in their respective positions, and they'll each receive massive paydays next March in free agency.

Le'Veon Bell - widely regarded as the best running back in the NFL - will now have to play 2018 under the $14.3 million franchise tag. Both the three-time Pro Bowler and GM Kevin Colbert voiced disappointment in the inability to reach a long-term contract.

 

Bell rushed for over 1,000 yards and racked up over 600 receiving yards in the 2014, 2016 and 2017 seasons. But the Steelers have a long history of being tough in long-term negotiations with their superstars, and they're taking a risk in not rewarding one of their top players with a long-term deal. At this point, it's hard to envision Bell coming back to the Steel City after next season.

Ansah will play under the $17.5 million franchise tag, and stands to be one of the most coveted free agents next year. He had 14.5 sacks in 2015 and racked up 12 in 2017. Pass-rushers of his caliber don't come around often, so Ansah can be ready for a whopping amount of cash next year.

As for Lawrence, he'll play under the $17.143 million tag and will also stand to make lots of money next offseason. He's coming off a breakout year for the Cowboys, having posted 14.5 sacks and four forced fumbles.

Joyner - one of the top safeties in the game - earned a 90.3 rating from Pro Football Focus last year. With only so many safeties of his caliber around, Joyner could break a record for biggest contract for the position.

NEXT: LE’VEON BELL RUMORED TO MISS HALF THE NFL SEASON THANKS TO CONTRACT ISSUES