Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell announced that he will be retiring at just 24 years old after admitting that continuing to play would put his life in danger
11:58 ET, 15 Oct 2025
David Bell announced that he will be retiring from the NFL at just 24 years old
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David Bell announced that he will be retiring from the NFL at just 24 years old(Image: Getty Images)
Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell is retiring in the prime of his career after conceding that continuing to play would “literally risk life and limb.”
The Browns have endured a difficult handful of days after rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel did little to impress in his first NFL start against the Pittsburgh Steelers. To make matters worse, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin ruthlessly called out Cleveland's top brass for trading veteran signal-caller Joe Flacco to a division rival.
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In the latest setback for the franchise, Bell announced that he will be hanging up the cleats following three seasons in the NFL. Taking to social media, the 24-year-old revealed he was “blindsided by an off-field injury” several months ago that put his career at major risk.
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"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.
"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."
Since being selected by the Browns with the 99th overall pick in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Bell appeared in 32 games for Cleveland, during which the Purdue product reeled in 41 catches for 408 yards and three touchdowns.
Last September, Bell suffered a hip injury during a Week 2 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, bringing a premature end to his 2024 campaign.
“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,” Bell continued.
David Bell appeared in 32 games for the Browns over the last three seasons
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David Bell appeared in 32 games for the Browns over the last three seasons(Image: Getty Images)
“Thanks to God for guiding me every step of the way and for the strength to chase this dream.”
After initially making the Browns’ 53-man roster this offseason, Bell was waived and brought back onto the practice squad. He began the 2025 campaign on Cleveland’s active/non-football injury list.
Though Bell stopped short of sharing exactly what led to his latest health setback, he called on his lawyer, Brad Sohn, to ensure that no other players have to go through the same thing.
“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,” Bell wrote. “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 response to Bell’s statement, Sohn replied: “One thing is for sure. This will NOT happen again. Bet.”
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The Browns’ social media team additionally sent Bell well wishes, writing: “Appreciate you, David. It’s been a pleasure having you be a part of our organization. Best wishes in this next chapter.”