Cleveland Browns WR David Bell Retires After Injury Setback

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell announced his retirement from the NFL on social media Tuesday due to an off-field injury.

Bell, 24, explained that he felt “blindsided by an off-field injury that was beyond my control, which put my football future in jeopardy.” He emphasized after consulting with medical experts that continuing to play football could “literally risk life and limb.”

Bell was drafted by the Browns in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He suffered a dislocated right hip during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in September 2024, which ended his season.

Following the injury, he was placed on the reserve/non-football injury list at the beginning of the 2025 season. Prior to his retirement, Bell had participated in just one game during the 2024 season, producing three receptions for 27 yards.

In his three years with the Browns, Bell recorded a total of 41 receptions for 408 yards and three touchdowns over 32 games.

In his retirement message, Bell expressed gratitude for the memories made during his football career and thanked the Browns organization, including team owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam, General Manager Andrew Berry, and the medical staff.

As he moves on to the next chapter of his life, Bell stated, “I am so proud of what I’ve accomplished and intend to apply football’s teachings to help make the world a better place.” He concluded by thanking his fans and community for their support.