October 14, 2025 — Cleveland, OH
Former Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell has officially announced his retirement from professional football, marking the end of his journey in the NFL after three seasons.
Bell, 24, shared the news on social media earlier today, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to live out his childhood dream and thanking his teammates, coaches, and fans for their support throughout his career.
“Football has been such a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Bell wrote. “I’m thankful for every moment — the highs, the lessons, and the relationships I’ve built along the way. To the Browns organization and the fans in Cleveland, thank you for believing in me and welcoming me like family.”
A standout at Purdue University, Bell entered the league as a third-round pick (No. 99 overall) in the 2022 NFL Draft. Known for his sure hands and precise route running, Bell was a reliable target during his college years, earning First-Team All-Big Ten honors in 2021.
During his time with the Browns, Bell contributed primarily as a rotational receiver and on special teams, catching 29 passes for 265 yards and one touchdown across three seasons. Though his professional career was brief, Bell leaves behind a reputation as a hard worker and a respected presence in the locker room.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski and several teammates took to social media to congratulate Bell on his career and wish him well in retirement. “David was a true professional who always gave everything he had,” Stefanski said. “We wish him nothing but success in whatever comes next.”
As Bell steps away from the game, he hinted at pursuing new opportunities outside football but didn’t specify his next move.
“I may be closing this chapter, but I’m excited to see what’s ahead,” he said. “The lessons football taught me — hard work, perseverance, and teamwork — will always stay with me.”
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About David Bell:
A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, David Bell became one of Purdue’s most accomplished wide receivers, finishing his collegiate career with over 2,900 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns. Drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2022, he spent three seasons in the NFL before announcing his retirement in 2025.
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