David Bell’s season with the Cleveland Browns has come to an unfortunate end following a dislocated hip injury suffered during the team’s recent win against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Bell will require surgery, which will sideline him for the remainder of the 2024 season.
Bell, a former third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, had just been added back to the active roster on September 11 after initially being waived and placed on the practice squad before the season opener. Despite limited action in the game, he made an immediate impact, catching three passes for 27 yards in just nine plays before sustaining the injury. Stefanski praised Bell for his hard work and dedication, noting that his teammates greatly appreciate his efforts.
Although Bell’s NFL career has been slow to take off, with just 38 catches for 381 yards over his first two seasons, the Browns were optimistic about his progression this year. Despite the setback, Stefanski expressed confidence that Bell will rebound from the injury, highlighting his importance to the team both on and off the field.
The injury is a tough blow for Bell, who had been working his way back onto the active roster and contributing in a limited role. However, Stefanski made it clear that Bell will remain involved with the team during his rehab, providing leadership and support in the locker room.
Cedric Tillman Will Need to Step Up for Browns
With David Bell sidelined for the rest of the season, Cedric Tillman is expected to step up and fill the void in the Browns’ receiving corps. Tillman, a third-round pick like Bell, had a strong showing during the offseason and preseason but has yet to make a significant impact in the regular season. So far, he has just two catches for five yards in 2024, but head coach Kevin Stefanski remains confident in his potential.
Stefanski emphasized that Tillman is doing everything the team is asking of him, and the opportunities will come: “Very small sample size and Ced is doing everything we’re asking him to do. So, the ball will make its way to him.” With several playmakers on the Browns’ offense, Tillman has the skills to contribute when his number is called.
Additionally, the Browns may look to involve rookie fifth-round pick Jamari Thrash more often. Thrash impressed in the preseason, recording ten catches for 141 yards, and could see an increased role as Cleveland adjusts to life without Bell. Thrash and Tillman offer young, promising options for the Browns as they look to maintain depth and production in the receiving game for the rest of the season.
Browns WR Amari Cooper Has Been Disappointing
The Browns’ passing game has struggled to find its rhythm early in the season, impacting even Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper. Through two games, Cooper has just five catches for 27 yards, despite being targeted a team-high 17 times. Issues like drops and difficult throws from quarterback Deshaun Watson have hampered his ability to make a significant impact.
Despite these early-season woes, head coach Kevin Stefanski is not concerned about Cooper’s connection with Watson, pointing out that the two have shown strong chemistry in the past: “I’ve seen it click with those two guys many times, so we’ll just keep working.”
Cooper is facing a crucial contract year, and his chemistry with Watson will be vital as he looks to secure his next deal, whether it’s with the Browns or another team. Last season, Cooper managed to produce solid numbers—72 catches for 1,250 yards and five touchdowns—even with instability at quarterback. Now, with Watson locked in as the starter, there’s added pressure on Cooper to elevate his performance.
If Cooper and Watson can regain their connection, Cooper will have a prime opportunity to prove he’s still an elite receiver, which could be key to securing a lucrative contract in the near future.
