Chiefs sign ex-Steeler Bell

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Linebacker Kendrell Bell, the defensive rookie of the year four years ago, signed a seven-year contract with the defensively troubled Kansas City Chiefs on Tuesday.
Bell, 6-foot-1, 257 pounds, was one of the last name free agents on the markets even though he played just three games last season with Pittsburgh.
His best season came as a rookie in 2001, when made the Pro Bowl after recording 88 tackles, nine sacks and a pair of forced fumbles in his first season.
Bell was troubled with shoulder and groin injuries last week and the New York Giants passed on him as a free agent after a physical, although they did not specify the exact problem.
"I had a conversation with [the Giants'] general manager and he said he did not fail their physical," team president Carl Peterson said.
"I'm doing good. I'm great," Bell said. "I can play today. I can play right now."
In Bell's only other full season, 2003, he was a Pro Bowl alternate after recording 108 tackles and five sacks, an interception and a forced fumble.
"We're pleased to acquire Kendrell's services and we think he will make an impact for the Chiefs in 2005 and beyond," Peterson said. "He's a quality football player, as well as a quality person."
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