David Bell is hanging up his cleats at the age of 24.
The Browns receiver, who played parts of three seasons in the NFL, announced the decision in a social media post Tuesday, revealing a few months ago he was “blindsided by an off-field injury that was beyond my control” and that it “put my football future in jeopardy.”
He did not expand on what exactly had happened, though he said that continuing with football would “literally risk life and limb.”
“After consulting with medical experts and praying, I accept that continuing to play football would literally risk life and limb,” Bell said in his announcement. “Although it is the last thing I would otherwise want to do, with a heavy heart I am announcing my retirement.
“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.”
Bell mentioned lawyer Brad Sohn in his announcement, thanking him for “making sure this never happens to anyone else again.”
“One thing is for sure. This will NOT happen again. Bet,” Sohn, a class action and injury attorney, wrote in a post on X while sharing Bell’s announcement.
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Bell was taken by the Browns in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft and appeared in 32 games during his time in Cleveland.
He recorded 41 catches for 408 yards and three touchdowns.
The wide receiver was waived by the Browns in September after initially making the 53-man roster, however, he was re-signed to the practice squad and elevated to the active roster.
He suffered a hip injury during the Week 2 win over the Jaguars on Sept. 15, 2024, ending his season early.
Bell started this year on the Browns’ active/non-football injury list.
“Appreciate you, David. It’s been a pleasure having you be a part of our organization. Best wishes in this next chapter,” the Browns wrote in a post on X.
