Dolphins GM believes one draft pick was a long-term investment
The Miami Dolphins took three wide receivers in the 2026 NFL draft, but general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan says one of them is a long-term investment.
After trading Jaylen Waddle, the Miami Dolphins double-dipped at receiver in the third round, and Chris Bell was the second wideout taken at pick No. 94. Bell is looking to be that dynamic, after-the-catch receiver the team needs, as he's coming off his best season before tearing his ACL late in the season, which essentially dipped his draft stock.
Bell played college football at the University of Louisville from 2022-25 and developed into a productive outside receiver over four seasons. He finished his career with 151 receptions for 2,166 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging about 14. 3 yards per catch.
As a freshman in 2022, he had a limited role with 7 receptions for 105 yards, but he steadily improved each year. In 11 games this past year, he recorded 72 catches for 917 yards and six touchdowns, earning All-ACC honors and finishing as one of college football's best receivers. New Dolphins General manager Jon-Eric Sullivan seems to believe in Bell's upside.
"I'll say we were really excited to add him," Sullivan said. "I think most would tell you if he wouldn't have gotten injured, he's probably not sitting there anywhere close to where we got him. It was one of those deals where it sounds like he's healing up great.