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The Bears added UCLA running back Kahlil Bell to the practice squad. They had only three backs after losing Kevin Jones in the preseason. Bell took the spot of guard Johan Asiata.

Chicago Bears sign Kahlil Bell to practice squad
Staff Report
Posted: 09/16/2009 06:13:58 PM PDT

Marin Independent Journal

CHICAGO - Kahlil Bell took his time, got healthy and waited for the right opportunity. When the Chicago Bears called the former Marin Catholic High standout running back earlier this week, he was ready to say yes.

Bell, who was cut by the Minnesota Vikings after injuring his ankle during training camp last month, was signed to the Bears practice squad on Tuesday. He flew to Chicago and participated in team workouts on Wednesday.

"I'm running with the scout team and it feels great," said Bell, who was signed as an undrafted free agent after finishing his four-year UCLA career with 1,741 yards rushing. "(The Bears) want me to compete and they want me to be completely healthy. I've been dealing with a string of injuries and now I feel I am really capable of showing I belong in the NFL."

Bell's agent Josh Arnold said the Bears were one of the teams that showed the most interest in his client before the draft.

"Jerry Angelo, the general manager, is a straightforward guy who has a great eye for talent," Arnold said. "This is a solid an opportunity for Kahlil. I really see him getting a few breaks, staying healthy and getting his shot in Chicago."

Bell, who played in one exhibition for the Vikings before he was released, was signed to the practice squad at the expense of offensive lineman Johan Asiata, who was released. Each team has an eight-man group on the practice squad who practices with the team but is not active on game days and does not travel. Players earn a minimum of $5,200 per week, according to the NFL Players Association Web site. Members of a team's practice squad are eligible to sign with any team's active roster at any time.

"I'm not concerned about the Bears depth chart or anything related to playing time right now," Bell said. "My main concern is to show what I can do and contribute to this team any way I can."

Bell admits he was disappointed after being cut by the Vikings.

"That was hard," Bell said. "But I would have been more disappointed if I had been cut for my play. Because I hurt my ankle, I never did get a chance to showcase my ability. That's what I want to do for Chicago. If I can do that, I'll let the cards fall where they may."

The Bears lost veteran running back Kevin Jones to a season-ending ankle injury right before the start of the season. Matt Forte is the team's starting running back. After losing to the Green Bay Packers last week, the Bears play the Pittsburgh Steelers in their home opener on Sunday. Chicago comes to the Bay Area on Nov. 12 in a Thursday night game against the 49ers.