Miami Dolphins rookie WR Chris Bell is activated in huge decision

MIAMI GARDENS – The Miami Dolphins activated rookie wide receiver Chris Bell from the non-football injury list on Monday, August 17th. Bell had been working on his recovery from a season-ending knee injury at Louisville. This activation suggests that both rookie receivers Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell could be available for the team's season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 13th.

This is a significant advantage for quarterback Malik Willis and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik. Bell, a 6'2", 228-pound third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, was previously a first-team All-ACC at Louisville, where he amassed 2,166 yards in 47 games and started 36 games. Known for his physicality and ability to produce yards after catch, Bell has been compared to the late Deebo Samuel.

The Dolphins have been cautious about Bell's return, but he is now fully cleared to play. Malik Willis may rely on Malik Washington, Caleb Douglas, Chris Bell, Greg Dulcich, and De Von Achane as his top receiving threats in 2026, with rookie Kevin Coleman also vying for playing time. If Bell had been on the physically unable to perform list at the start of the season, he would have missed at least four games. This positive development for Miami highlights the importance of weapons for Willis and the team.