The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a savvy move just ahead of offseason workouts, signing tight end Jaheim Bell to a one-year deal on May 4. At just 24 years old, the 6-foot-2, 241-pound pass-catcher brings intriguing potential to the Steel City after spending time with the New England Patriots and a brief stint on the Steelers' practice squad at the end of the 2025 season.
Bell's journey to Pittsburgh has been anything but straightforward. Drafted by the Patriots in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft, he appeared in 15 games as a rookie, logging two catches for 20 yards on 83 offensive snaps while making his mark primarily on special teams. However, he was released during training camp last year and spent a week on the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad before joining the Steelers for their final regular-season game and wild-card playoff push.
After being released by Pittsburgh on Jan. 20, 2026, Bell quickly signed with the Eagles again, only to be cut on April 28. Now, he's back with the Steelers, looking to carve out a role in a tight end room that could use his athleticism and versatility.
Before turning pro, Bell showcased his playmaking ability across four college seasons—three at South Carolina and one at Florida State. In 38 games, he hauled in 95 receptions for 1,260 yards and 12 touchdowns, while also adding four rushing scores. That dual-threat capability makes him an intriguing piece for offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's system, which has historically featured tight ends in creative ways.
Bell will have plenty of competition this offseason, as the Steelers also selected tight end Riley Nowakowski in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. That draft class, highlighted by Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor at No. 21 overall, also includes Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard, Penn State quarterback Drew Allar, Georgia cornerback Daylen Everette, Notre Dame defensive tackle Gabriel Rubio, and Oklahoma safety Robert Spears-Jennings.
With OTAs just around the corner, all eyes will be on Bell as he looks to prove he belongs in Pittsburgh's plans for the upcoming season.