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, Aug. 17.

Bell has looked good in work on the side with trainers as he planned a return from a season-ending knee injury at Louisville.

This is an indicator Miami could have rookie receivers Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell available for the season opener at Las Vegas on Sunday, Sept. 13.

This is a huge boost for quarterback Malik Willis and offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik.

Bell was a third-round pick in the last NFL Draft, 94th overall.

Bell, 6-foot-2, 228 pounds, was first-team All-ACC last year. He has 2,166 yards in 47 games and 36 starts at Louisville.

Bell is physical and tough and has produced massive yards-after-catch in college.

Some have compared Bell's skills set to vintage Deebo Samuel.

The Dolphins have repeatedly said they plan to be cautious with Bell's return. But he is cleared.

Willis could potentially lean on Malik Washington, Caleb Douglas, Chris Bell, Greg Dulcich and De'Von Achane as his top receiving weapons in 2026, with rookie Kevin Coleman also seeking playing time.

If Bell has begun the season on the physically unable to perform list, he would have missed at least four games. This is very positive news for Miami, as weapons have been a concern for Willis and the team.

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Joe Schad is a journalist covering the Miami Dolphins and the NFL at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jschad@pbpost.com and follow him on Instagram and on X @schadjoe. Sign up for Joe's free weekly Dolphins Pulse Newsletter. Help support our work by subscribing today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Miami Dolphins rookie WR Chris Bell is activated in huge decision