Beloved former Kentucky football player, fan Jerry Bell passed away

It’s a sad time for longtime fans of Kentucky football, as former Wildcats defensive lineman Jerry Bell – who played for UK from 1987-1991 – passed away on Monday from a widowmaker heart attack. KSR’s Freddie Maggard shared the news with the public Tuesday on Twitter.

“It’s with a heavy heart that I announce that former UK defensive lineman and dear friend Jerry Bell passed away on Monday,” Maggard wrote. “Please keep @HausBell Dawn in your prayers and respect her privacy during this difficult time.”

It’s with a heavy heart that I announce that former UK defensive lineman and dear friend Jerry Bell passed away on Monday. Please keep ⁦@HausBell⁩ Dawn in your prayers and respect her privacy during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/nV5Btrx6U5

— Freddie Maggard (@FredMaggard606) March 29, 2022

Bell – who prepped at DeSales High School in Louisville and graduated in 1987 – suffered a traumatic brain injury in 1997, as stated in his Twitter biography. Bell and Maggard were teammates at Kentucky, with Bell being a defensive lineman and Maggard playing quarterback.

The details on Bell’s arrangements have yet to be announced.

Bell was a fierce defender at Kentucky

KSR’s Freddie Maggard wrote about Jerry Bell in a story titled “Wildcat Enforcers.”

“Affectionately known as the “Goat”, the Louisville DeSales product was not offended to take cheap shots nor was he shy about protectively reminding opponents that they shouldn’t block his fellow defensive line mates below the knees. He absolutely hated quarterbacks, Bell’s crushing hit on Emmitt Smith remains legendary. The 6’5 310 pound, incessantly ticked off, and boisterous red headed defender was regularly flagged for extra-curricular activity.”

A look at Bell’s highlights

Some highlights from Jerry Bell’s playing days at Kentucky can be viewed HERE.