The San Francisco 49ers are adding HBCU talent to their roster, signing former Prairie View A&M standout Quinton Bell to a one-year contract, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Bell participated in a workout with the team on Tuesday before earning the deal.
Bell, who was selected by the then-Oakland Raiders in the seventh round (No. 230 overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft, has carved out a professional career through stops with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, and most recently the Miami Dolphins. During the 2025 season with Miami, he appeared in seven games, recording eight tackles and recovering a fumble.
The Long Beach, California native took an unconventional path to the NFL. He spent three seasons at Prairie View A&M as a wide receiver before transitioning to defensive end for his final collegiate season. Where he recorded 46 total tackles (14 solo, 32 assisted), 10 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. His athleticism helped him become the first Panthers player selected in the NFL Draft since 1980 when Matthew Teague was taken in the 7th round in the supplemental draft.
Bell now joins a 49ers defense looking to add depth and versatility heading into training camp. His experience as an edge defender and linebacker, along with his special teams value, should give him an opportunity to compete for a roster spot throughout the preseason.
