David Bell, the third-year wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns, has suffered a dislocated hip during Week 2 and will miss the rest of the season. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Bell will undergo season-ending surgery.
The 23-year-old was carted off the field in the third quarter of Cleveland’s recent win, and while the severity of his injury suggested a significant absence was imminent, Monday’s update solidified his unavailability for the remainder of the year. Bell’s injury adds to his challenges as he was already facing uncertainty regarding his future with the team, having spent part of the 2024 season on and off the practice squad. Drafted in the third round of the 2022 draft, Bell played 47% of the snaps as a rookie, recording 35 targets but only 24 receptions for 214 yards without a touchdown. His role diminished last season, and he managed only nine offensive snaps in the current campaign before his injury.
Despite this setback, Bell remains under contract through 2025, indicating the Browns’ intent to retain him for the near future. In the interim, Cleveland will rely on Amari Cooper, Jerry Jeudy, Elijah Moore, and Cedric Tillman to lead their receiving corps. The team may consider adding a player to fill Bell’s role or adjust internally to compensate for his absence.
Additionally, Stefanski reported that running back Pierre Strong is dealing with a hamstring injury and is expected to be out on a week-to-week basis. If Strong is sidelined, the Browns’ backfield will be short-handed. However, the offense may benefit from the potential return of left tackle Jedrick Wills, right tackle Jack Conklin, and tight end David Njoku as early as Week 3. Their return would provide a boost, though Bell will be sidelined for the remainder of the season.