LB Brandon Bell 2017 NFL Draft Preview
By Shane Lunnen
A projected draft Day 3 pick, Brandon Bell looks to be a high end contributor at the next level
Continuing our series at previewing Penn State’s NFL draft prospects, we next look at linebacker Brandon Bell. Despite having his share of injuries, Bell was an integral part of Linebacker U during his four years as a Nittany Lion.
Bell did not take a redshirt his freshman year in 2013 and played in 10 games that season. He was also named to Big Ten Network’s All Freshman Team. The following year he made the jump to starter and recorded 47 tackles, seven tackles for loss, two sacks, and an interception.
During Bell’s junior year, he started 11 games but missed two due to an injury. He posted 12.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and forced three fumbles. He ranked sixth in the conference in forced fumbles that season.
More from Victory Bell Rings
- How Penn State Fans Can Win $450 GUARANTEED Bonus at BetMGM + Caesars This Week!
- Penn State football: Week 3 odds for Nittany Lions national title, Drew Allar Heisman
- Penn State football: Halftime takeaways include perfect offense, defense almost perfect but should fans be concerned?
- FanDuel PA Promo: Bet $5 on Penn State, Win Guaranteed $200 Bonus
- Penn State football recruiting: Several key commits dominate for their high schools over the weekend
Bell missed four games last year due to injury. However when he was on the field, he made a big impact. He posted a career high 88 tackles. Against both Ohio State and Michigan State, he posted 18 tackle efforts. He not only was contributing on the field, but as a team captain he became a vocal leader for the team.
In his final game as a Nittany Lion in the Rose Bowl, he made a key interception and return setting up a Penn State touchdown. However, he was injured on the run back and did not return to the game, ending his collegiate career.
During his four-year career, Bell always had a knack to find the ball or ball carrier. He was a playmaker and that should serve him well as he looks to find a home in the NFL.
Bell might be staying close to Penn State and his home state of New Jersey. Per this report from 247 Sports, he had draft visits earlier this month with the New York Giants, New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles.
Bell is projected as a late draft prospect, either the sixth or seventh rounds. While his injuries from last year might have cost Bell some draft stock, whichever team drafts him will be getting a real asset on and off the field.