2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jalen Bell, DL, University of Memphis

• Name: Jalen Bell
• Position: DL
• College: University of Memphis
• Height: 6’0″
• Weight: 270 lbs
• X: @humblejay99
• Instagram: @jalenbell.5

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

When I was younger, my first love was soccer and basketball. I was always a big kid, so football just seemed natural. My best friend at the time suggested it, and once I got on the field and realized I could foul people more than six times without getting a call, it just felt right. It seemed like the perfect sport for me. I always watched my brother play growing up, and my uncle coached, so I knew I would be on the field one day. From the beginning, I was denied the opportunity to play because I was overweight my first year, which caused me not to play. The following year, I worked tirelessly as a six-year-old kid trying my hardest to make weight just to be on the field. From sleeping in trash bags, to only running during practices, to taking laxatives to clear out my system. Although it was challenging, the day I stepped on the scale and made weight, I can promise it was all worth it.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

There are so many, from winning my first little league championship at Ford Field to winning my state championship at Ford Field as well. I believe my favorite moment was catching the interception against Troy to end the game and having the honor of doing the team tradition of breaking the rock.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

Going forward as a player, I’m looking to grow and learn as much as I can. From elevating my run game to my pass rush and being able to affect the game in every possible way. The first thing I want to achieve every day is simply getting better, whether that’s on the field, in the weight room, or just learning the game.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day, who and why?

For me, it would most likely be Aaron Donald. His work ethic stands out, and he was undersized just like me yet dominates the game. I would love to learn anything I could from him, especially being able to relate about being undersized and dominating bigger opponents.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My mother inspires me the most. She passed around my freshman year of college and is the reason I am the man I am today. The way I work, the way I move, and the reason I go so hard all come from her. She always supported and motivated me in a million ways. Right or wrong, my mom had my back. She was my best friend and helped me every step of the way in any way she could. Everything I do is for my mom and my family. Wherever I go, I promise to always keep her name alive.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

My favorite defensive scheme is a four-down front. I honestly have no preference on the back end, but up front I love playing four down. Being able to move from end to nose to three-tech, I feel I thrive in one-on-one situations, whether in the run or pass game. Being able to get those one-on-ones and take advantage of the offensive line is what makes the four-down front my favorite.

What should we know about Jalen Bell the person?

Jalen Bell is a hardworking leader who loves his family and cares about people. I’ve had a long college career with many ups and downs, from family losses to time off the field and everything in between. The one thing that has stayed true is the way I show up to work every day and being someone my team can count on. I’m also big in the community. I host a youth football camp, Jalen Bell’s Youth Football Camp, which is one of the things I’m most proud of. We’re moving into our third year, and I’m hoping it’s the best one yet. Jalen Bell is just a ballplayer looking for an opportunity and hoping to impact any team in any way he can.

What stands out about your film the most?

What stands out most on my film is my versatility. I can play every position on the defensive line. I get off the ball well and can jump the snap. I can play the run and win at the line of scrimmage, and I can be a pass rusher. I can play on any down, and my will to get to the ball always shows.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

In life and on the field, I’ve learned that someone is always in a worse position than you, no matter how bad things seem. Whether you’re on top or at the bottom, be grateful, because someone would pray for the bad situations, you’re in and would die for the good opportunities you have. Throughout life, I’ve endured loss and injury, both on and off the field. That’s a part of life and the game. A setback can set you up for a greater future. Embracing challenges and hard moments allows you to truly appreciate wins, whether on Saturdays or in life, and understand that the trials and tribulations were worth it and helped shape who you are today.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would be getting one of the hardest-working players in the country. A leader in every way, both on and off the field, especially in how I work. I keep my head down, stay grateful for the opportunity, but I’m always ready to compete and show any team that I can play and dominate at the highest level. I’m all in during every phase of the game and willing to do anything to compete, improve, and make the roster.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

What I love most about football is that it’s one place where I have 100% control over the outcome. I can prepare and dominate an opponent play in and play out. Only I can control that. Football has always been my escape. When I put on a helmet, cleats, and shoulder pads, I can clear my head and do the one thing I love — and that loves me back. In life, we can’t dictate family, finances, or relationships, but on the field I can control everything and truly be myself. Football has done so much for me, and I’m forever grateful and excited for what it will continue to do in my future. It’s just a game, but it’s a game I love and one that has saved my life more times than I can count.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

The most underrated player I’ve played with is Ahmad Nelson from Tennessee State University. He played middle linebacker and grew a lot over my two years there. His last year was great, and he led the team in tackles. I don’t feel he received the recognition he deserved, but he was always true to the grind, kept his head down, and worked.