New Orleans Saints 2017 Year in Review: Vonn Bell

Vonn Bell was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 2nd round, with the 61st overall pick, in the 2016 draft from Ohio State. Bell was a standout for the Buckeyes, intercepting 9 career passes in three seasons, including 6 during his sophomore campaign, while adding a sack, two fumble recoveries, and 2 defensive touchdowns. He appeared in all 16 games as a rookie with New Orleans, starting 13 games, finishing second on the team in tackles and looking like a key piece in the rebuilding of a struggling Saints secondary.

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Bell was a huge part of the Saints defensive improvement in 2017, fitting perfectly into coordinator Dennis Allen's aggressive philosophy. He played his best close to the line of scrimmage, and led New Orleans in tackles. He has also proven to be an extremely effective blitzer, tying for second on the team with 4.5 sacks. Bell was often utilized in coverage in slot receivers as well, athletically matching up well against most receivers and tight ends.

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Bell has yet to show the ballhawking skills that he had in college, having yet to record an interception in two NFL seasons. He has displayed solid man to man coverage skills, terrific blitzing ability, and is a very good run defender. Bell will most likely take on even more of a roaming role in Allen's defensive scheme in 2018, now that 2013 1st round pick Kenny Vaccaro is likely to depart via free agency. It's a role that Bell played well a year ago, and will allow 2017 2nd round pick Marcus Williams and newly signed free agent Kurt Coleman to play more traditional coverage responsibilities at safety. Vonn Bell has been a vital part of the defensive turnaround of the New Orleans Saints, and will play a key part in the continued success of it's young defense as they look to contend for another Super Bowl.