Cleveland Browns helmets (Photos via Imagn Images)
Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell is walking away from football at the age of just 24 due to an off-field injury he sustained months ago.

Bell took to social media on Tuesday to share that he has made the heart-wrenching decision to retire from football after consulting with doctors, who have determined that he would be taking a massive risk if he returned to the field.

“Although it is the last thing I would otherwise want to do, with a heavy heart I am announcing my retirement,” he wrote.

“Football gave me memories I’ll cherish forever and taught be how through focus, selflessness and determination, the whole can be greater than the collection of individuals,” Bell added. “Thanks to God for guiding me every step of the way and for the strength to chase this dream.”

David Bell’s Retirement The Second Sudden Departure This Week

Sep 15, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell (Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images)

Bell was a third-round pick by Cleveland in 2022 following a standout career at Purdue, where he earned All-American honors and was named Big Ten Receiver of the Year in 2021.

He made 16 appearances for the team as a rookie, registering 24 receptions for 214 yards, and followed that up with 14 catches for 167 yards and three touchdowns in 15 games, three of them starts in 2023.

His cousin, Tylan Jones, gave birth to a baby girl at the Lucas Oil Stadium that season, having come to watch him play the Indianapolis Colts. He found out after the game.

The Browns waived Bell last September but signed him to their active roster the same week. Unfortunately, he dislocated his hip during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, making it the last time he would ever play.

His decision to retire at this point in the season follows another abrupt departure earlier this week, with defensive end Za’Darius Smith calling it quits on the Philadelphia Eagles in a move no one saw coming.

We wish them both the best in retirement.