Malik Nabers isn't sure when he'll be back from a torn ACL and meniscus suffered in September, let alone return to superstar form. Wan'Dale Robinson's uncertain future is a massive, expensive question mark. Saying the New York Giants' wide receiver room is in flux entering a pivotal offseason feels like an understatement.
Enter Louisville standout wideout Chris Bell, one of the 319 prospects invited to the 2026 rendition of the NFL's annual Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. He likely won't be participating, however, while continuing to recover from a torn ACL sustained in November. It puts a damper on his draft stock that clubs won't see him test, though that shouldn't deter the Giants, barring any unforeseen setbacks.
Bell appears set to miss a key part of the evaluation process. Nevertheless, his presumed absence from the event in Indy may present the Giants with an opportunity to add a high-upside playmaker at a discount.
Giants should monitor Louisville star WR Chris Bell regardless of 2026 NFL Scouting Combine participation
ESPN's Field Yates projected Bell to be a first-round pick as recently as December; that's notably post-injury. This alone speaks to the level of talent we're dealing with.
After taking a significant step forward as a junior in 2024, Bell truly broke out during his senior season before getting hurt. Health (or lack thereof) aside, the combination of size, skill set and upward trajectory makes him an intriguing Day 2 target in April. The Giants would be wise to be among the receiver-needy squads at least considering buying the dip.
A 6-foot-2, 220-pound specimen, Bell is incredibly hard to tackle once he gets going. His frame speed and physicality make him a nightmare after the catch. He has the strength at the point of attack to win jump-ball situations.
Everything about Bell's game aligns with what the Giants are building. His presence would be a boon to the development of New York's electrifying young quarterback, Jaxson Dart. He's an ideal counterpart to Nabers on the outside and can work in different spots of the field than Robinson, assuming the latter re-signs.
Across 11 contests in 2025, Bell caught 72 passes for 917 yards and six touchdowns. For what it's worth, FanSided's most recent three-round mock draft has the Giants landing him with the No. 37 overall selection.