2017 NFL Draft: Eagles to host Penn State linebacker on visit

The Eagles are set to host Penn State outside linebacker Brandon Bell on a pre-draft visit, according to a report from Andrew Callahan of Lions247 (hat tip to NJ.com). It would seem Bell will NOT count against Philadelphia’s 30 official visit limit considering he’s a local South Jersey native (Mays Landing).

Bell, 22, measures in at 6-1, 227 pounds. In four years at Penn State, Bell logged 226 tackles (27 for loss), 11.5 sacks, four interceptions, six passes defensed, seven forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.

The senior captain suffered an elbow injury during Penn State’s bowl game this year, but he’s reportedly healthy now. The Eagles will likely want to check up on his medical situation when they host him in Philadelphia.

CBS Sports projects Bell to be a late Day 3 pick or a priority undrafted rookie free agent signing. The Eagles could be looking at him as a depth player who can also contribute on special teams.

Our friends over at Penn State SB Nation blog Black Shoe Diairies wrote about why Bell was arguably the team’s defensive MVP last year.

Here’s a scouting report on Bell via DraftAnalyst.com.

Pos: Athletic and underrated linebacker with an aggressive game. Physical, always looking to get involved in the action and willing to throw his pad into the pile. Gets depth on pass drops, remains disciplined with assignments and effective making plays in space. Quick out to the flanks, displays excellent range and covers a lot of area on the field. Fires up the field filling gaps defending the run, shows ability in pursuit and runs down ball handlers from the backside. Solid special-teams player quickly getting down the field on coverage units to make plays.

Neg: Easily disrupted by blocks, not a stout linebacker and more of a chase and run defender.

Analysis: Scouts graded Bell as a marginal free agent entering the season yet Bell’s skill and productivity is worth a much higher rating. Potentially a late round choice he offers possibilities as a nickel linebacker/special teams player.