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Former Mississippi State basketball player Jimmy Bell Jr. signing with Los Angeles Chargers

IMG_0985by:Griffin McVeigh•04/26/25•

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NCAA Basketball: Murray State at Mississippi State
Dec 13, 2023; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs forward Jimmy Bell Jr. (15) reacts during the first half against the Murray State Racers at Humphrey Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Chargers are reportedly making one of the offseason’s more interesting signings. And it’s not your usual story with a standard football player. Somebody will be making the move from basketball to football, hoping to get looks as an offensive tackle.

According to FOX’s Jordan Schultz, former Mississippi State player Jimmy Bell Jr. has agreed to a deal with the Chargers. Schultz described Bell as “an absolute monster” because of his size. Bell might be a standard height on the basketball court but will be huge on the football field.

“Sources: Former Mississippi State basketball standout Jimmy Bell Jr. is signing with the #Chargers as an OT,” Schultz said via X. “Get this: Bell checks in at 6-9, 330 pounds. An absolute monster.”

Back in April 2024, On3’s Maroon and White reported that Bell was going to be joining the Mississippi State football team under head coach Jeff Lebby. Despite being out of basketball eligibility, Bell was still able to play football.

“Confirmed by a Mississippi State source, Bell will join the Bulldog football team on Thursday to begin spring drills,” Maroon and White’s Paul Jones said. “Bell recently concluded his college basketball eligibility in the NCAA Tournament but has one year of eligibility remaining in football if he remains on that course.”

Bell never officially took the field for the Bulldogs, instead entering the NCAA transfer portal. However, he never wound up signing anywhere. Los Angeles, at the very least, is interested in what they can work with moving forward. A potentially big-time signing for the Chargers.

More on basketball career of Jimmy Bell Jr.

Bell began his college basketball career during the 2019-2020 season with Saint Louis. Two seasons were spent playing in the A-10 before making a jump to the Big 12 with West Virginia. His first year in a power conference was a successful one, going for 4.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game.

Going back into the portal meant Mississippi State was able to acquire Bell’s services. Head coach Chris Jans enjoyed watching Bell average a career-high 5.0 points while shooting 46.9% from the field. The forward/center also grabbed 4.9 boards every time out.

Never making it to the NBA, Bell appears to be done with basketball. He will attempt to make his way as a professional athlete through football. A unique chance as the NFL continues to show everyone out there is being evaluated.