Dallas Cowboys' Bell Wins Major Award

When the Dallas Cowboys decided to move Markquese Bell from safety to linebacker in 2023, no one knew what to expect. Bell responded by stepping up and becoming one of the best players on defense. That play on the field led to Bell receiving the 2023 NFLPA Black College Player of the Year Award.

The effort shown by Bell last season was incredible, for a safety to drop down into the box on every down and play at a high level was a sight to behold. Not only was he utilized in pass defense on running backs and tight ends, but he also was the second-leading tackler on the team with 94 tackles. He only trailed fellow linebacker Damone Clark, who had 109 tackles in 2023.

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Bell was also second on the team in creating fumbles with two, trailing Jourdan Lewis who had three on the season. In 2024 Bell is moving back to his natural role as a safety, but the Cowboys have a player they know can come in and play at linebacker if the situation presents itself.

Under new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, Bell is another chess piece he will be able to move around the defense. Those are the players that Zimmer covets, and thanks to him showing his durability and toughness at linebacker you can expect Zimmer to come up with packages that allow him to field three safeties.

Expect Bell to be a critical part of Zimmer's defense, and if he performs the same way he did at linebacker last season, Bell is going to be a contender for a lot more awards in 2024.