Vonn Bell

Vonn Bell's Biography

Vonn Christian Bell, born on December 12, 1994, is a professional American football safety who plays for the Cincinnati Bengals in the National Football League (NFL). Raised in a family with a strong athletic background, Bell’s ascent in football has been rooted in hard work, outstanding talent, and resolute dedication to the sport.

Born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Bell’s first two high school years were spent at Chattanooga Central High School. At this early stage, his performance was already turning heads as he consistently bagged all-district honors.

In his junior year, Bell transferred to Ridgeland High School in Rossville, Georgia. His talent shone even brighter, particularly in his senior year, when he led his team to the Georgia class AAAA state championship game.

However, the title race didn’t end in victory, as they lost to Sandy Creek. Despite the setback, Bell remained a highly sought-after player, rated by both Rivals.com and Scout.com as a five-star recruit and the second-best safety in the country. His football prowess was also recognized by 247Sports and ESPN, who ranked him as the 50th best player overall and a high four-star recruit, respectively.

Bell’s skill caught the attention of Ohio State University, to which he made a commitment in February 2013. As a freshman, Bell featured in all thirteen games as a backup. His first start was at the Discover Orange Bowl in January 2014, where he recorded his first collegiate interception. The following year, he became a full-time starter for the Ohio State Buckeyes, emerging as a leading powerhouse in the team. In the National Championship victory against Oregon in 2015, he made a marked contribution with six tackles and a sack.

However, Bell’s journey wasn’t without obstacles. During the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana, a hamstring injury prevented him from participating in the combine drills. Despite this, he opted to meet team representatives and have his measurements and weight taken. The New Orleans Saints saw his potential and selected him in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft. That year, Bell attended Ohio State’s pro day and rocked private workouts and visits with several NFL teams.

His career with the Saints was marked by consistent performance that raised his stock within the team. A highlight was the four-year, $3.97 million contract that he signed with the team on May 10, 2016. During this time, he competed with safety veteran Jairus Byrd for the starting free safety position.

Throughout his rookie year with the Saints, Bell solidified his presence, finishing the year with 87 combined tackles, four pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and a sack in 16 games.

In 2020, Bell penned a three-year, $18 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals. His shining moment came in 2021 when he recorded an interception off Patrick Mahomes in overtime during the American Football Conference Championship against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Bell continued to make his presence felt in the 2022 season, achieving two interceptions in a game against the Miami Dolphins. The next year, he signed a three-year, $22.5 million contract with the Carolina Panthers. However, after a season, he was released by the Panthers.

Remaining unwavering, Bell reunited with the Cincinnati Bengals on a one-year deal in 2024. His journey in football, marked by impressive performances, adaptability, and resilience, solidifies his presence in the NFL.

Off the field, Bell’s life has not been devoid of challenges either. He suffered a personal loss when his older brother Volonte Bell, an assistant coach at Chattanooga State Community College, tragically died in a car accident in February 2020. Known for his resilience on the field, Bell continues to carry this trait over into his personal life, braving difficulties with determination and strength. Through the winds of triumph and adversity, Vonn Christian Bell remains a beacon of unwavering resilience and extraordinary talent in the world of football.