Well, this is certainly an unexpected development.
In a series of tweets posted to his Twitter account Tuesday afternoon, wide receiver Kenny Bell announced that he is leaving the Alabama football team. Not only that, but it appears the fifth-year senior is stepping away from the game of football, period.
“I know I’m going to lose so many friends and followers and get more negative talk from people but truth is I [don’t] care,” Bell stated, "[I].t’s been a nice run but I’m hanging up my cleats. ... time too [sic] focus on my responsibilities MY KIDS.
“I’ve made so many memories here @ Alabama but some things you gotta let go. Salute to the team y’all keep grinding and win that championship.”
The Tide has not confirmed the departure. Head coach Nick Saban is expected to address the media following this afternoon’s practice.
While Bell was listed as the co-starter at the “Z” receiving spot on the final depth chart of the preseason, he did not catch a pass in the Tide’s season-opening win over Virginia Tech. Last season, Bell’s 17 receptions were fourth on the team while his 431 yards were third. His 25.4 yards per reception were easily tops on the team.
For his career, Bell started seven of the 35 games in which he played. He had 36 catches for 712 yards and five touchdowns during his time in Tuscaloosa.