Dolphins Clear Rookie WR Chris Bell to Return From Injury

The Miami Dolphins cleared rookie wide receiver Chris Bell to begin practicing Monday after the Louisville product spent time recovering from a serious knee injury. Bell, selected by Miami in the third round with the 94th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, missed several months following surgery and rehabilitation. The activation from the active/non-football injury list marks his first opportunity to participate in team drills during the preseason.

Bell’s path to the Dolphins was altered by a major knee injury sustained last December, which medical experts believe significantly impacted his draft positioning. Had he remained healthy through the college season, consensus evaluations suggested he would have been selected much earlier, possibly in the late stages of the opening round. His recovery process limited his availability ahead of the draft this year.

During Monday’s session, Bell worked in individual drills while wearing a red non-contact jersey, indicating his participation remained limited to specific conditioning exercises. He did not take part in competitive 11-on-11 situations, suggesting the team is taking a measured approach to his gradual return. The Dolphins are among several new offensive weapons joining returning stars De’von Achane and All-Pro center Aaron Brewer.

Miami will host the New York Giants at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday at 4 p.m. for their next preseason contest. The squad also features quarterback Malik Willis, offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor and fellow rookie receiver Caleb Douglas as offensive additions.