Denver Broncos: Kenny Bell is a Name to Watch Next Year

The Denver Broncos signed numerous players to future contracts this last week and one in particular should intrigue the team entering the season…

The wide receiver position has some intrigue with the Denver Broncos due to some possible change at the position. There’s uncertainty surrounding Demaryius Thomas, Emmanuel Sanders, Cody Latimer, and Bennie Fowler on next season’s roster. This adds curiosity to newly signed wide receiver Kenny Bell. Bell attended the University of Nebraska, but has struggled in the NFL to maintain a spot on a roster.

Bell is lanky at 6-1 and 188 pounds, but there’s a sneaky athleticism to his game at wide receiver. During his time with the Cornhuskers, Bell became a big play threat and showed he is not afraid to make the tough catch in tight windows. He played immediately as a freshmen and provided stability throughout his career in college shattering a few records.

Nate Swift (another former Denver Bronco), at the time, held the record for most receptions with the Cornhuskers. Bell passed Swift’s 166 catches in his career with Nebraska totaling 181. Career yards receiving at Nebraska was originally held by a former Heisman Trophy Award winner in Johnny Rodgers.

Bell moved ahead of Rodgers’ 2,479 receiving yards with 2,689 by the time his Nebraska career was finished. He became the first player to lead the team in receptions in four consecutive seasons.

Bell packed significant production in college. He has struggled to stay on an NFL roster, but the intrigue is there to make an immediate impact. Bell is a savvy route runner that can high point a ball in the air. He is quick enough to create separation getting to the second level. It is because of this speed Bell might provide a good opportunity on special teams.

The best trait for Bell is willingness to block considering his weight. Bell made it a priority to square up defensive backs and safeties making holes for a running back. He just need the sliver of opportunity to prove it. Bell would join Thomas, Taylor and Latimer as some of the best blocking wide receivers on the team.

More from Predominantly Orange

• Broncos chances of landing Sean Payton dwindling, but not gone
• Denver Broncos dream coaching staff for DeMeco Ryans
• Denver Broncos: “Sleeper” David Shaw checks every box
• The Broncos’ coaching search likely has not gone to plan
• Special Chiefs Suck Offer: Bet $5, Win $150 if Joe Burrow Passes for ONE YARD vs KC

Bell has all the makings to be a slot receiver in the NFL. It also helps he will play for his hometown team.

It is unclear how he fits with the Denver Broncos, but his height and willingness to make the impossible catch helps in any case. His effort in run blocking might make him a candidate to make the 53-man roster.

Addressing the depth at wide receiver is a must for Broncos either in the draft or a future contract. Kenny Bell might be another piece of the puzzle.

Also, his father Ken Bell played as a return specialist with the Denver Broncos during a three year stint (1986-1989). His son Kenny played high school football for Fairview High School in Boulder.

Bell will be a player to watch closely once we get closer to Training Camp.