The Miami Dolphins landed a potential steal in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Louisville wide receiver Chris Bell with the 94th overall pick. Once projected to go much higher, Bell's draft stock took a hit after suffering an ACL tear in November 2025. But make no mistake: this is a big-time playmaker, and the Dolphins are betting he can become a consistent threat at the next level.
Here are five things to know about the Louisville star before he hits the practice field in Miami.
1. Built like a running back, plays like a superstar
At 6-foot-2 and 222 pounds, Bell has the kind of sturdy, powerful frame you'd expect from a running back. But his game is all about making defenders miss after the catch. His ability to turn short passes into big gains draws comparisons to former 49ers and Commanders star Deebo Samuel. That's the kind of versatile weapon that can change an offense.
2. Numbers that jump off the page
Over four college seasons, Bell racked up 151 receptions for 2,166 yards and 12 touchdowns. This past season alone, even with the injury cutting things short, he posted 917 receiving yards and six touchdowns in just 11 games. That's a productive 83 yards per game—and a clear sign of what he can do when healthy.
3. All-ACC honors and national recognition
Bell earned first-team All-ACC honors this past season and was a semifinalist for the Biletnikoff Award, given to the nation's top receiver. If he had played a full season, many believe he would have been a favorite to win it outright. That's the kind of elite talent the Dolphins are getting.
4. A signature performance against the best
In his biggest game of the season, Bell went off for 166 yards and two touchdowns against the Miami Hurricanes—a defense widely regarded as one of the best in the country. That performance showed he can rise to the occasion against top competition, a trait that translates well to the NFL.
5. From three-star recruit to NFL prospect
Bell's journey started at Yahoo City High School before he transferred to Greenville Christian, where he led his team to a state championship as a senior. He arrived at Louisville as a three-star recruit and never left, developing into a star over four seasons. Each year, his game improved, showing a relentless work ethic and a desire to keep growing.
Some analysts project Bell as a WR2 or WR3 in the NFL, but his size, speed, production, and natural ability suggest he has WR1 potential. The Dolphins need a reliable starter, and Bell might just be the answer. Pair that with his steady improvement every season, and Miami could have a gem on their hands.