CLEVELAND — Beau Bell won’t be ringing anyone’s bell anytime soon.
The hard-hitting rookie linebacker underwent knee surgery Thursday to remove loose cartilage from behind his right kneecap, the Browns announced. The team didn’t give a timetable for his return, but he is expected to miss at least the entire preseason.
Bell, selected in the fourth round out of UNLV, was the Browns’ top draft pick in April. He was projected to play on special teams immediately and work his way into the competition at inside linebacker. He practiced throughout training camp until missing the evening practice Monday.
If Bell’s recovery goes as hoped, he should be ready to return early in the regular season. Because he began training camp on the active list, he’s ineligible to be placed on the physically unable to perform list. He’s expected to keep a roster spot as he rehabilitates.
The latest injury is unrelated to the one Bell suffered at the Senior Bowl in January. He bruised and sprained his left knee during workouts for the Senior Bowl, which hurt his draft status.

Sitting out

Also missing the preseason opener Thursday night: tight end Kellen Winslow (hamstring), fullback Lawrence Vickers (hamstring), tight end Steve Heiden (knee), guard Seth McDinney (ankle), receiver Kevin Kasper (hamstring) and linebacker Antwan Peek (knee surgery).

Columbia cheerleaders at game

Cheerleaders from Columbia High School braved raindrops to perform at Thursday night’s game.
Advisor Adrienne Heidecker said the squad was chosen to perform after sending an audition DVD to the team.
Members of the squad are Alyssa Erskine, Lindsey Ruminski, Kyla DeFranco, her younger sister Carly DeFranco, Ashley Schofield, Chelsea Swanek, Alexi Karadimas, Serena Cristino, Miranda Torres, Alyssa DiDonato, Kelsey Waddell, Cassandra Klink and Kayla Silvaggio.
“They are so excited and have worked so hard,” said Heidecker, herself a former Columbia High cheerleader.

In order to comment, you must agree to our user agreement and discussion guidelines.
You must be registered and logged in to post a comment. If you aren't already registered, click here.
If you are registered, click here to log in.
Need help? Email Us.