What David Bell’s NFL Combine performance means for the Colts

The Indianapolis Colts might not have a first-round pick this year due to the Carson Wentz trade, but they still have enough assets needed to make some impact additions in the 2022 NFL Draft. One receiver that has gained some traction and met with Indy several times is Purdue stud David Bell.

Irrespective of who the quarterback is, the Colts need to make sure that signal-caller has the perimeter weapons needed to be effective. Bell, a local kid who attended Warren Central and went to college at Purdue, could become the No. 2 receiver if TY Hilton ends up leaving.

Unfortunately, Bell didn’t have the best combine. On top of the fact he wasn’t as physically impressive as his listed measurables were with Purdue, he failed to crack 4.6 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Bell’s stock might be starting to fall just a bit, which is good for the Colts.

Bell’s tape with the Boilermakers makes him look like a perfect candidate to go high in the second round, and the Colts could steal him at a major discount if they can pick him in the middle of Day 2. In some ways, his poor combine could be a blessing in disguise for Indy.

Could the Indianapolis Colts snag David Bell?

Bell was not expected to challenge John Ross’ record for the 40-yard dash, but ending up in the 4.6 range when Day 2 contemporaries like Christian Watson and Alec Pierce dominated wasn’t the best look for him. In such a competitive receiver class, this could be a death knell for Bell.

Indianapolis already had some questions about his fit in this offense. After all, considering how similar his style of play is to that of Michael Pittman Jr. and the lack of speed elsewhere on the roster, wouldn’t it be a bit redundant to put both of them on the field at the same time?

Those who are a bit more bullish on his potential believe that he would be a tremendous fit with the Colts. A solid playmaker as a runner with great ball skills and physicality as a blocker that really stands out, Bell should be able to start picking up NFL minutes without too much strife.

While there are better scheme fits out there with more potential as a field-stretcher, Bell was an extremely productive receiver in college that put up consistent numbers against future pros in the Big Ten despite inconsistent quarterback play. The Colts could snag Bell when his value is at his lowest and turn him into a perfect WR2.

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