Chiefs sign linebacker Kendrell Bell

Updated: March 8, 2005, 6:49 PM ET
Associated Press

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Linebacker Kendrell Bell, the defensive rookie of the year four years ago, signed a seven-year contract with the defensively troubled Kansas City Chiefs on Tuesday.

Bell, 6-foot-1, 257 pounds, was one of the last name free agents on the markets even though he played just three games last season with Pittsburgh. His best season came as a rookie in 2001, when made the Pro Bowl after recording 88 tackles, nine sacks and a pair of forced fumbles in his first season.

Bell was troubled with shoulder and groin injuries last week and the New York Giants passed on him as a free agent after a physical, although they did not specify the exact problem.

"I had a conversation with (the Giants') general manager and he said he did not fail their physical," team president Carl Peterson said.

"I'm doing good. I'm great," Bell said. "I can play today. I can play right now."

In Bell's only other full season, 2003, he was a Pro Bowl alternate after recording 108 tackles and five sacks, an interception and a forced fumble.

"We're pleased to acquire Kendrell's services and we think he will make an impact for the Chiefs in 2005 and beyond," Peterson said. "He's a quality football player, as well as a quality person."


Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press

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