Skyler Bell Turning Heads at Shrine Bowl as NFL Draft Buzz Builds
There’s still a few months to go before the 2026 NFL Draft, but UConn wide receiver Skyler Bell is already making noise-and not just with his stats. The All-American is currently showcasing his skills at the East-West Shrine Bowl, and let’s just say, NFL scouts are paying attention.
During early practices leading up to the Jan. 27 showcase, Bell's explosiveness and route-running stood out. Trevor Sikkema from Pro Football Focus highlighted one particular rep that summed up Bell’s quick-twitch ability: a simple out route that turned into a problem for the defensive back.
Even with the sideline acting as an extra defender, Bell’s sudden cut and burst after the catch left the DB grasping at air. That kind of separation?
It’s hard to teach-and even harder to defend.
A Historic Season in Storrs
Bell isn’t just flashing in practice-he’s coming off one of the most prolific seasons in UConn football history. Under former head coach Jim Mora, the Huskies went 9-4 in 2025, and Bell was the engine of the offense. He hauled in 101 receptions for 1,278 yards, earning him First-Team All-American honors from the Associated Press-the first player in program history to receive that distinction.
Bell wasn’t just good-he was elite. He was one of only two players in the nation to top the 100-catch mark and one of just three to eclipse 1,200 receiving yards. His 13 touchdowns ranked second nationally, and he outproduced some of the biggest names in college football, including Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, widely considered the top receiver in the country.
He was also a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award, given to the nation’s best pass catcher. That’s a big-time accolade, and Bell earned every bit of it with his consistency, playmaking, and ability to take over games.
Why the Shrine Bowl Matters
The East-West Shrine Bowl isn’t just another exhibition-it’s a proving ground. It’s the longest-running college all-star game in the country, with a legacy that stretches back more than 90 years.
Legends like Tom Brady, Walter Payton, Lawrence Taylor, John Elway, and Gale Sayers all suited up in this game before launching Hall of Fame careers. For players like Bell, it’s a chance to make a statement in front of NFL personnel and decision-makers.
Every rep in practice, every route in the game-it all matters. And so far, Bell is making the most of his opportunity. His combination of production, polish, and explosiveness is giving teams a lot to think about as they prepare for April’s draft.
Around the UConn Campus
While Bell is making waves in Texas, back in Storrs, both UConn basketball programs are gearing up for a busy weekend.
The women’s team, fresh off a dominant win over Georgetown, will hit the road to face Seton Hall on Saturday at noon ET. The game was moved up a day due to a looming snowstorm expected to hit the East Coast.
Meanwhile, the men’s squad-ranked No. 2 in the nation and sitting at 18-1-will take on Villanova in a Big East showdown Saturday at 12:30 p.m. ET. With the way both teams are playing, it’s shaping up to be another big weekend for UConn athletics.
But make no mistake, all eyes are on Skyler Bell this week. And if he keeps performing like this, don’t be surprised if his name starts climbing up draft boards in a hurry.