Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Louisville WR Chris Bell Set for ACL Surgery This Week, Altering 2026 Draft Prep

The All-ACC receiver will miss on-field pre-draft events after his Nov. 22 injury at SMU.

Overview

  • ESPN reports Bell will undergo ACL repair in Dallas with Cowboys team physician Dr. Dan Cooper.
  • Bell exited the SMU game with a knee injury, did not return, and then missed the regular-season finale against Kentucky.
  • He delivered a breakout 2025, recording 72 receptions for 917 yards and six touchdowns to earn All-ACC honors.
  • ESPN’s Field Yates had projected Bell late in Round 1 before the injury, and he now says the setback will likely push Bell out of the first round.
  • He is expected to miss the scouting combine and postseason all-star games during rehab, and Louisville will face Toledo on Dec. 23 in the Boca Raton Bowl.