David Bell is walking away from football. The Browns wide receiver announced he’s retiring from the NFL, with the fourth-year player citing complications from a recent injury.
“Several months ago, I was blindsided by an off-field injury that was beyond my control, which put my football future in jeopardy,” Bell wrote on social media. “After consulting with medical experts and praying, I accept that continuing to play football would literally risk life and limb. Although it is the last thing I would otherwise want to do, with a heavy heart I am announcing my retirement.”
According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, the player retired following a surgical complication on an undisclosed injury. The procedure took place during the offseason, and the complication would have made it “life-threatening” for Bell to play football again. This injury wasn’t related to the dislocated hip that ended the receiver’s season in 2024. Bell has been on the non-football injury list since the beginning of training camp.
The former third-round pick spent his entire career in Cleveland, appearing in 32 games. He had his best showing as a rookie in 2022, when he finished with 24 catches for 214 yards. He had 14 catches in 2023 before his standout performance in the Browns’ playoff loss, when he hauled in eight receptions for 54 yards. Bell was limited to three touches in his lone appearance in 2024.
This guy gave it his all even as his body betrayed him. As a Browns fan we had high hopes but injuries just derailed his career. Wish the best for you David moving forward.
Really wanted this to workout – but he just didn’t have the athletic profile.
Prayers for you David. 🙏
I remember seeing his name floated in early 2022 mock drafts as a first rounder before a rough combine tanked his stock.