NFL Star, 24, Announces Surprise Retirement

Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell, 24, has announced that he’s retiring from the NFL after being “blindsided” by an “off-field injury.”

Bell Announced His Retirement on Tuesday

"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 Tuesday on Instagram. "After consulting with medical experts and praying, I accept that continuing to play football would literally risk life and limb.” He added that leaving the NFL is "the last thing I would otherwise want to do.”

Of his professional career, Bell said: "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."

He Thanked the Browns and All of His Supporters

Bell went on to thank the Cleveland Browns organization and especially its owners, the Haslam family, along with general manager Andrew Berry, VP of Football Administration Chris Cooper, his coaches, and the medical staff that treated his injury. He also shared gratitude for his family, "whom I love always, and to my community for always holding me down."

Bell concluded: "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.”

Bell last played in week two of the 2024 season before he was placed on the non-football injury list due to an issue with his hip which wasn’t specified. He was a third-round pick in the 2022 draft and caught 41 passes for 408 yards and three touchdowns throughout three seasons with the Browns.