Jason Bell (American football)

For the former rugby league player, see Jason Bell (rugby league)

Jason Dewande Bell (born April 1, 1978) is a former American football cornerback in the National Football League. He played college football at UCLA.

Early life
Bell was born on April 1, 1978 in Long Beach, California to parents Cortland and Geraldine Bell. He attended Millikan High School and majored in history at UCLA.

College career
Four-year letterman for the Bruins. In his career posted 42 tackles and nine passes defensed as a senior. Recorded 38 stops and a team-high 14 passes defensed as a junior. Registered 18 tackles and four passes defensed as a sophomore. Saw action as a reserve cornerback and on special teams as a true freshman.

Professional career
In 2001 he played in all 16 games as a rookie, registering club-high 21 special teams tackles as the team’s gunner and led Cowboys with three downed punts, all inside the opponent’s 10-yard line…made NFL debut versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers(9/9).

In 2002 as a member of the Houston Texans, he played in 13 games, missing three games due to a broken wrist. He led the club with 14 special teams tackles, plus one fumble recovery.

In 2003 he started in 13 games, seeing time on special teams and at cornerback. Was inactive for three games. Finished with 15 special teams stops.

In 2004 he only played nine games for Houston in 2004, primarily on special teams…posted six special teams tackles.

In 2005 played in all 16 games for Houston, with the majority of his action coming on special teams. Recorded four solo tackles and three passes defensed in action at cornerback. Had seven tackles on special teams.

In 2006 played in 15 games and 1 playoff game for New York Giants, posted 30 tackles, 1 interception and 4 passes defensed.

In 2007 he injured his back and was placed on injured reserve with the New York Giants.

After back surgery, he became a financial advisor in 2008.

Personal
Bell was married to a woman named Kim, but they are divorced as of July 2006. Bell dated Girls Aloud singer Nadine Coyle since September 2008 and were engaged at one point, but eventually they separated.

He played quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back at Millikan High School in Long Beach, California. Earned Blue Chip Illustrated All-America honors as a senior. Picked off 12 career passes. Also lettered in track, clocking a personal-best 10.5 100m.