A Boost for the Dolphins' Receiving Corps
The Miami Dolphins announced Monday that wide receiver Chris Bell has been taken off the non‑football injury list, opening the door for him to compete for a spot on the 53‑man roster ahead of the 2026 season.
Bell, who missed the entire previous campaign after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in a Louisville game last November, has been progressing through a rigorous rehabilitation program that emphasizes strength, agility and route precision.
Selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft with the 94th overall pick, the receiver entered the league with a reputation for physicality and route running that drew comparisons to Pro Bowl standout AJ Brown, a comparison echoed by analyst Booger McFarland and former coach Nick Saban.
Coach Jeff Hafley has publicly praised Bell’s work ethic, noting that the player’s ability to accelerate off the line and execute sharp cuts has been evident in recent practices, suggesting that the former Louisville standout could contribute sooner than many expect.
The Dolphins’ receiving corps already includes Malik Washington and Caleb Douglas, but Bell’s potential to stretch defenses and provide a reliable third‑down option adds a new dimension to the offense, especially as the team evaluates its depth chart heading into preseason.
If healthy, Bell may see action in the upcoming preseason matchup against the New York Giants on August 4, and he is also eligible for the season‑final exhibition against Atlanta on August 28, giving him a chance to showcase his readiness.