Ronnie Bell Scouting Report

By: Michael Higgins

(Image courtesy of University of Michigan Athletics)

School: Michigan (Senior)

Position: WR

HT: 6’0

WT: 190 lbs

Sideline Prospect Ranking: #72

Ronnie Bell was a wide receiver recruit out of high school. He was given a 3-star ranking and was ranked as the 159th overall wide receiver in his high school class. Bell was a top-15 receiver out of the state of Missouri and attended Park Hill High School in Kansas City. In high school, Bell was a 3-year starter as both wide receiver and returner. On top of being a football star, he was just as good of a basketball player. Bell originally signed a Letter of Intent to play basketball for Missouri State. Out of high school, Bell only had two choices when it came to where he was going to play his college football – Kansas State or Michigan. Bell chose Michigan. Ronnie Bell was a player who made an instant impact on the Wolverines’ offense. As a freshman, he appeared in all 13 games at wide receiver and also was a large contributor to the special teams units. By his sophomore season, Bell was earning the team’s Offensive MVP award and was officially the X- Factor on that offense. Aside from a 2021 season in which Bell suffered a torn ACL, he has been the leading receiver for Michigan and has really flashed in bunches.

Ronnie Bell is a fast receiver. He uses his speed in a functional way. He is an elusive player that can split gaps and slip through the grasp of defenders. Michigan has had him heavily involved in pre-snap motion throughout his career in Ann Arbor. Whether it is to receive the ball in the flats, run a wheel route out of the backfield, or take a handoff in a jet sweep, he is constantly moving prior to the snap. Bell creates easy separation near the line of scrimmage with a quick first step that instantly puts the cornerback in a disadvantageous position. In his routes, Bell is the definition of a technician. When working into a break, he does not foreshadow his move but drops his hips really low before cutting on a dime. He executes quick twitch movements such as those in a whip route or a post route perfectly. Bell has consistent hands and a decent catch radius that acts as a vortex to haul in the football with smooth process. On top of being a toolsy wide receiver, Bell will likely join an NFL organization with a chance to compete for both the kick returner and punt returner positions.

While showing flashes of what he can be, Ronnie Bell never put it together consistently throughout his career. An injury, a COVID season, and poor QB play seemingly prevented him from truly showcasing what he can do. The injury is another thing to note. Over a year removed at this point, it is not as big of a question mark as it would have been if it was more recent, but until he is a full two years removed from the injury, it will be something to watch.

Ronnie Bell will receive an opportunity to shine right away because he brings so much to the table. His versatility not only as a returner but within the wide receiver position is intriguing. If he had more reps under his belt as a Grad Senior, then we would likely be talking about Bell being taken in the first round.

Scheme Fit: Shanahan Offense

Ideal Role: Z Receiver

Best Team Fits: LAC, CLE, ATL

Player Comparison: Tyler Boyd

Player Grade: 76.0