Amid the sultry heat of summer training, while big names like Tyreek Hill and Tua Tagovailoa draw the crowds and cameras at Miami Dolphins camp, a less-heralded talent is making substantial waves. Linebacker Quinton Bell, a towering figure at 6-4 and weighing 250 pounds, is rapidly turning heads and capturing attention.
Initially a practice squad member since his entry into the league in 2020, Bell’s playing time has been limited, featuring lightly in only nine games over the years. But with a recent spate of injuries beleaguering the Dolphins’ defensive lineup, Bell is seeing considerably more action and is seizing every opportunity to shine.
One of the keen observers to take note of Bell’s rising stock is The Miami Herald’s own Omar Kelly, who has been closely monitoring the linebacker’s performance throughout this offseason. Kelly didn’t mince words, declaring Bell the largest surprise of this year’s camp thus far, an encouraging development for the team.
The Dolphins’ defensive woes have been compounded with the recovery of Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb from their serious injuries last year. Their absence has paved the way for rookies like Chop Robinson to step up, and indeed, Robinson is living up to expectations. Yet, it’s Bell’s emergence that could be crucial for Head Coach Mike McDaniel as he strategizes without Phillips and Chubb for the initial games of the upcoming season.
Bell, reveling in his increased role, shared his enthusiasm and dedication with Kelly, emphasizing his commitment to continual improvement and earning the trust of the coaching staff. “Every day I’m coming out here and continuing to improve on everything I can and continue to gain trust from the coaching staff. That’s my main goal – gaining trust with this coaching staff and showing them that I come out every day, I work hard and that you can trust me on Sundays,” Bell stated.
While he’s still a distance away from becoming a staple name in the Dolphins lineup, Bell’s commendable preseason efforts could well see him securing a spot on the 53-man roster. As the preseason games approach, all eyes will be on Quinton Bell to maintain his trajectory and possibly stamp his mark when given the chance.