Bell generated early buzz with the Patriots. He was selected by New England with the No. 231 overall pick in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL draft. His draft position did not deter him from drawing attention almost immediately. Analysts noted his potential to be a valuable value pick. Patriots reporters highlighted that Bell could be a versatile asset, with scouting notes emphasizing his athleticism and after-the-catch ability.
Bell, at 6-foot-2 and 241 pounds, posted a 4.61-second 40-yard dash at the NFL combine. He was viewed as a potential TE3/H-back behind established tight ends, with the speed to work the seam and the versatility to create mismatches. The early excitement carried into training camp, with Patriots coverage listing Bell as a near-lock to make the roster before practices began. He delivered a memorable summer session, showcasing his playmaking potential.
During August practices, injuries in the tight end room allowed Bell to demonstrate his upside. He caught three touchdowns in red-zone 11-on-11 work, with scores coming from Jacoby Brissett, Maye, and Joe Milton, providing a glimpse of the playmaking ability that fueled the early optimism.
Bell ultimately made the 53-man roster as a rookie and appeared in 15 games. However, his regular-season production did not match the initial intrigue. He recorded two receptions on three targets for 20 yards in 2024 and did not start a game, also contributing on special teams.
Bell’s time with the Patriots ended before his second season. He was released on Aug. 22, 2025, as part of a 14-player roster reduction under first-year head coach Mike Vrabel. He later joined the Eagles’ practice squad in October, though that stint lasted less than a week. Pittsburgh signed him to its practice squad on Dec. 31 after placing tight end Darnell Washington on injured reserve.
The Eagles brought Bell back on a reserve/future contract in January before waiving him in April. Six days later, the Steelers signed him to a one-year deal and gave him another opportunity to compete for a roster spot.
Friday’s release puts Bell on the move again, but his age and athletic profile could keep him in consideration for a practice-squad role elsewhere once roster cuts settle.
For fans, this latest development underscores how quickly the outlook can shift for late-round prospects. Bell entered the league with enough upside to spark “steal” talk and earned a role as a rookie. Two years later, he is again seeking his next NFL opportunity.
