Chris Bell, one of college football’s top wide receivers in 2025, fell to the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft despite a standout season that included 72 catches for 917 yards and six touchdowns. The Louisville product suffered a late-season ACL tear that derailed his draft stock, despite having a strong case for a second-round selection.
Bell’s injury was the primary concern for NFL teams. A redshirt season is likely for the rookie, a status that often leads to a drop in draft value. Team sources indicated that late-season ACL tears from a player’s final college season are a red flag, as they raise questions about readiness for the NFL grind. Bell’s late-season injury, coupled with concerns about his ability to learn a professional playbook, contributed to his slide.
The Miami Dolphins ultimately selected Bell in the third round with the 94th overall pick. The move makes sense for a team undergoing a rebuild after moving on from veterans Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. Miami can afford to be patient with Bell, allowing him to rehab his knee and learn the playbook in 2026 before making an impact in 2027.
Sources close to the team believe Bell has the tools to become a long-term starter. His 917 receiving yards in 2025 ranked in the top 20 among all FBS wideouts, and he posted a 12.7 yards per catch average. His performance in a key upset win over Miami highlighted his ability to perform in clutch moments.
The Dolphins’ front office sees potential in Bell as a future No. 1 receiver. They can stash him in 2026 to focus on development, giving him time to hit the ground running in 2027. If Bell attacks his rehab and adapts to the NFL, he could become a steal in the third round.
Bell’s draft slide is part of a larger conversation in this year’s class. Other prospects like Rueben Bain Jr., Keldric Faulk, and Kyle Louis also saw their stock fall, while players like Caleb Banks and Blake Miller were taken higher than expected. The “Why the Slide?” and “Was it a Reach?” series will continue to explore these stories throughout the offseason.
Bell’s next step is to make an impression in rookie minicamp and training camp. If he stays healthy and continues to develop, he could carve out a role on a Dolphins team looking to rebuild through the draft.
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