Todd Bell facts for kids

Todd Anthony Bell (born November 28, 1958 – died March 16, 2005) was an amazing American football player. He played as a safety in the National Football League (NFL). Most of his time was with the Chicago Bears in the early 1980s.

College Football Star

After finishing high school at Middletown, Todd Bell earned a scholarship. He went to Ohio State University to play football. For four years, he was a starting player as a defensive back. He played a special role called "roverback." This position was a mix of a strong safety and a linebacker.

One of his most exciting moments happened in his junior year. On November 17, 1979, Ohio State played against their big rival, the Michigan Wolverines. A teammate, Jim Laughlin, blocked a punt from Michigan. Todd Bell quickly grabbed the ball. He ran 18 yards for a touchdown! This play helped Ohio State win the game 18–15. The victory sent them to the 1980 Rose Bowl. It also gave them a chance to win the national championship.

Playing in the NFL

The Chicago Bears picked Todd Bell in the fourth round of the 1981 NFL Draft. He played for the Bears from 1981 to 1984. In his fourth year, he was even chosen for the Pro Bowl. Todd was known for his strong tackles on the field. Off the field, he was famous for being a fun-loving prankster.

In 1985, Todd Bell did not play the whole season. This was because of a disagreement over his contract with the team. He missed out on being part of one of the most dominant Super Bowl teams ever. Another player, Dave Duerson, took his place and also made it to the Pro Bowl that year.

Todd returned to the Bears in 1986. However, a hamstring injury and the contract issues still affected his time there. In 1988, he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles changed his position from strong safety to linebacker. He played two years with them. His career ended early when he broke his leg. This happened during a game against the Chicago Bears on October 2, 1989.

Later Life and Legacy

Todd Bell passed away on March 16, 2005. He had a heart attack while driving his car in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.

In 1997, Todd returned to Ohio State University. He worked there to help students from minority groups. He helped connect the university with local businesses. This allowed employees to go back to college. He also worked with Boys & Girls Clubs. They created programs to improve neighborhoods near the campus.

Todd Bell also helped start the Black Male Initiative. This program aimed to improve the school experience for African American male students. It focused on their academic success and leadership skills. When Todd died in 2005, a special center was named after him. It is now called The Todd Anthony Bell National Resource Center on the African American Male. This honors his important work at the university.