BEAUMONT, Texas – A member of the Lamar University Cardinal Hall of Honor, Kevin Bell (Track and Field - 1974-77 and Football – 1976-77), passed away on Friday.
 
A 2002 Hall of Honor inductee, Bell was a two-sport star for the Cardinals in the mid 1970s. One of the all-time great sprinters in program history, Bell graduated as the school's record holder in the 100-meter dash clocking a time of 10.3 to win the Baylor Relays. A two-time NCAA qualifier, Bell advanced to the NCAA Championships in 1976 and 1977.
 
Bell was also a standout on the gridiron, where he earned first-team All-Southland Conference honors following his senior season. One of the league's top running backs during his career, Bell led the team in rushing recording 515 yards on the ground during the 1977 season – a season that included a 127-yard performance against rival McNeese (in a 35-7 victory over the Cowboys). 
 
A two-way threat on the football field, Bell was also one of the top return specialists in the league averaging 21.4 yards per kickoff return.
 
Following his collegiate career, Bell would be drafted by the San Diego Chargers, before moving on to the New York Jets where he played receiver in 1978.