The Cleveland Browns have seen little production out of their wide receiver group through the first six games of the 2025 NFL season.
That group got a little smaller on Tuesday afternoon when David Bell unexpectedly announced his retirement.
A third-round selection by the Browns in the 2022 NFL Draft, Bell had only played in one game since the start of the 2024 season after he suffered a dislocated right hip in the Week 2 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The injury required surgery and landed
Bell on the injured reserve list for the remainder of the season.
In July of this year, the Browns placed Bell on the active/non-football injury list, which teams utilize for players while they recover from injuries that did not happen during a game or a practice.
While neither the Browns nor Bell ever discussed the nature of the injury, Bell referenced it as a contributing factor in his retirement decision in a social media post:
Several months ago, I was blindsided by an off-field injury that was beyond my control, which put my football future in jeopardy. 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.
Football gave me memories I’ll cherish forever and taught me how through focus, selflessness, and determination, the whole can be greater than the collection of individuals. Thanks to God for guiding me every step of the way and for the strength to chase this dream.
Thank you to the Browns – the Haslams, Andrew Berry, Chris Cooper, my coaches and the team docs/medical staff for providing me with great care. To my family whom I love always, and to my community for always holding me down, appreciation and thanks. To Brandon Parker of Vayner Sports for guiding me on my journey. To @bradsohn for making sure this never happens to anyone else again. And of course to the fans who I will miss forever. I’m so proud of what I’ve accomplished and intend to apply football’s teachings to my next chapter, and to help make the world a better place.
In 32 career games with the Browns, Bell had 41 receptions for 408 yards and three touchdowns.
We wish Bell the best of health as he moves on to the next phase of his life and career.
