Former Browns Receiver David Bell Sues Surgeon for $300 Million Over Botched Surgery
Bell alleges a sports hernia repair nearly cost him his life and prematurely ended his NFL career.
Former Cleveland Browns wide receiver David Bell has filed a lawsuit seeking over $300 million, alleging that a sports hernia repair surgery performed by surgeon Dr. William Meyers was unnecessary and negligently executed, leading to severe complications that forced him to retire from the NFL at age 24.
The lawsuit, filed in Philadelphia, names Dr. Meyers, Jefferson Health, and 14 other parties. Bell claims that misleading scan results convinced him to undergo a core muscle surgery he did not require. According to the complaint, this procedure was part of a pattern of profit-driven medical practices targeting professional athletes.
The situation escalated during the surgery when Dr. Meyers allegedly cut Bell's femoral artery, causing substantial internal bleeding. The lawsuit states the clinic was unprepared for such an emergency, necessitating Bell's rapid transfer to Thomas Jefferson Hospital. Urgent surgery was performed to repair the artery and save his leg, but the ordeal resulted in lasting physical damage.
Prior to the injury, Bell was a notable player for the Browns. The team drafted him in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft from Purdue, where he was recognized as the Big Ten Receiver of the Year. Over three seasons, Bell played in 32 games, recording 41 catches for 408 yards and three touchdowns, including a rookie season with 214 receiving yards.
The complications from the surgery prevented Bell from continuing his professional football career. The Browns placed him on the reserve/retired list in 2025.
The $300 million lawsuit seeks compensation for lost future NFL earnings, pain, and damages. The Cleveland Browns are not named in the suit, and the defendants have not yet formally responded to the allegations in court.