Buffalo Bills rookie wide receiver Skyler Bell is already feeling the positive impact of offensive coordinator Joe Brady—and it’s showing up in the most important way: his mindset.

Selected in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, Bell entered rookie minicamp with high expectations. But as any rookie will tell you, the transition to the pros can be overwhelming. During one practice, Bell dropped a couple of passes—something that’s not unusual for a newcomer—but it was clear the moment was getting to him.

That’s when Brady stepped in. According to CBS Sports’ Carter Bahns, the Bills’ offensive coordinator pulled Bell aside to calm his nerves.

“He was just telling me to be myself and stop overthinking,” Bell shared. “I was just in my head a little bit, getting jitters and things like that. He said, ‘Be yourself. You’re here for a reason.’”

That advice might sound simple, but it carries weight coming from a coach who has helped shape one of the league’s most explosive offenses. And the numbers back up Bell’s potential: he was a consensus All-American at UConn last season, with just four drops on 141 targets, per Pro Football Focus. That’s a sure-handed receiver who just needed a reminder of his own talent.

With Josh Allen under center, the Bills’ passing game is always a focal point. But the receiver room is crowded. Khalil Shakir, D.J. Moore, Keon Coleman, Joshua Palmer, and Tyrell Shavers all sit ahead of Bell on the depth chart. That means early playing time may be limited—but when Bell does get on the field, he’ll need to make every snap count.

Drops can’t be part of his game in Year 1. But with Brady’s guidance and a renewed sense of confidence, Bell looks ready to carve out his role. It won’t be a huge one right away, but in Buffalo’s high-powered offense, every target matters—and Bell is already learning how to handle the pressure.