The Miami Dolphins selected three wide receivers during the 2026 NFL Draft, including Chris Bell, a third-round pick who likely would have been drafted earlier if not for a torn ACL sustained in his final season at Louisville.
Bell has made significant progress in his recovery and recently came off the non-football-injury list to participate in a preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons. Although he is now on the active roster, Bell acknowledges the need to regain his playing shape, both mentally and physically.
"The last skill is just getting that confidence back, you know what I'm saying? Getting back into football shape," Bell stated in a media session. He emphasized the importance of building confidence, not only in his knee but also in his ability to perform on the field. Bell mentioned that he sometimes overthinks during practice, but once he catches the ball, his nervousness dissipates.
In the preseason matchup against the Falcons, Bell caught two passes out of five targets from quarterback Cam Miller, totaling 22 yards, with a long reception of 18 yards. He aims to return to the form he displayed in his last year at Louisville, where he recorded 72 receptions for 917 yards and six touchdowns across 11 games.
