By Vaughn McClure
The Bears promoted running back Kahlil Bell from the practice squad today after placing Garrett Wolfe (lacerated kidney) on injured reserve.
Bell, an undrafted rookie free agent from UCLA, could see time on special teams and will move into the role of third running back behind starter Matt Forte and backup Adrian Peterson.
Bell has gotten reps with the first-team offense this week in practice. Bell spent some time with the Minnesota Vikings earlier this season, but a sprained ankle cut short his stay. The 5-11, 212-pound Bell ran for 1,741 yards and 17 touchdowns with an average of 4.4 yards per carry over his four-year career with the Bruins.
Bell joined the Bears Sept. 16 after being released by the Vikings.
The Bears promoted running back Kahlil Bell from the practice squad today after placing Garrett Wolfe (lacerated kidney) on injured reserve.
Bell, an undrafted rookie free agent from UCLA, could see time on special teams and will move into the role of third running back behind starter Matt Forte and backup Adrian Peterson.
Bell has gotten reps with the first-team offense this week in practice. Bell spent some time with the Minnesota Vikings earlier this season, but a sprained ankle cut short his stay. The 5-11, 212-pound Bell ran for 1,741 yards and 17 touchdowns with an average of 4.4 yards per carry over his four-year career with the Bruins.
Bell joined the Bears Sept. 16 after being released by the Vikings.
"I'm just happy to be here," Bell said. "It's been a dream since I've been a little kid to be at this level. If I get the opportunity to contribute, I'll be living the dream."
Bears coach Lovie Smith offered high praise for Bell.
"Kahlil has been around here for a while," Smith said. "Whenever you're on the practice squad, you go against the No. 1 defense. Good football player. We brought him here for a reason.
"Whenever you keep a young running back on your practice squad, he can do some things.Good runner. Good size. He can catch the ball. He can do all the things you want a running back to do."
Bears coach Lovie Smith offered high praise for Bell.
"Kahlil has been around here for a while," Smith said. "Whenever you're on the practice squad, you go against the No. 1 defense. Good football player. We brought him here for a reason.
"Whenever you keep a young running back on your practice squad, he can do some things.Good runner. Good size. He can catch the ball. He can do all the things you want a running back to do."
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bout dang time!
bout dang time!
"Kahlil has been around here for a while," Smith said. "Whenever you're on the practice squad, you go against the No. 1 defense. Good football player. We brought him here for a reason.
That's encouraging, since NO ONE has trouble running against the Bears #1 defense!!!