Mike Bell (Fresno State)
Measurements:
Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 210 pounds
2018 Stats:
- 87 total tackles (3.5 for a loss), 0.5 sacks
- 8 pass breakups, 3 interceptions
If the Vikings are sitting there in the fourth round this year and they still have yet to snatch up a safety, then this former Bulldog could be their man.
Bell definitely has the size Mike Zimmer loves. Being that size, one would think that Bell is a big-time thumper. But even though he does hit hard, he also has pretty good tackling form and he wraps up the ball carrier with his massive arms.
Bell doesn’t have great speed as he timed in at a very pedestrian 4.83 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the 2019 combine. So there are some definite concerns about his recovery speed. He does still close in on an opposing pass catcher a hurry and he is also able to normally fly in just in time to knock the ball away from any intended receivers.
Bell had a very productive run at Fresno State. In three seasons he had 199 total tackles, nine tackles for a loss, one sack, four interceptions, and he is clearly a well-rounded safety prospect.
The Vikings could definitely take this big safety with a mid-round pick and use him primarily as a special teamer as a rookie. This would allow Bell to get stronger, get acclimated to the speed of the NFL, and figure out all of the the nuances that come with playing safety in the pros.
There is a ton of upside here and playing with a guy like Harrison Smith while also getting coached by Zimmer would definitely help Bell reach it.