Aug. 24, 2017
By Christian Page
AuburnTigers.com
AUBURN, Ala. - Though he had a stint rooting for Auburn while a high school student in Mobile, Wilson Bell decided to leave the state to play offensive line at Florida State for the Seminoles from 2013-16.
But after the 2016 season, with a bachelor's degree in editing, writing and media in hand, Bell's selection process started all over again when he decided to use his remaining year of eligibility to pursue a master's degree elsewhere.
This time around, Bell decided to return to his home state and play for the Tigers. After visiting Auburn, the decision was easy.
"When I came up here to visit, Auburn's campus still had the same scenery, but they had a new change," he said. "It was Coach Hand. After I talked with him, I decided I wanted to come to Auburn."
The coaching style and personality of the Auburn staff connected with Bell, leading to his commitment to Auburn the following day.
"Gus Malzahn is a God-fearing man and that attracted me," Bell said. "I felt that it was a better opportunity. I want to have a good chance of going to the NFL and I feel like Auburn can provide that opportunity for me."
Bell admits that he had some difficulties when first arriving on The Plains in May.
"When I walked through the doors, I struggled, initially," he said. "I was overweight, but they kept pulling me. They kept me going. I really value the culture here."
Bell's adjustment period is ongoing, as he has been part of the team for only a few months. Though a newcomer at Auburn, he plans to use his experiences at Florida State to help guide the younger players on the roster.
"Seeing that I played on a national championship team back in 2013-14, I feel like I can bring a lot to the table based on leadership qualities," he says. "I understand what needs to be done in order to be successful by bringing my knowledge and the extra piece to get better."
Bell started 19 games during his career as a Seminole on the offensive line. He was a member of teams that won a national championship, an Orange Bowl and two ACC titles. In 2013, he was Florida State's co-offensive scout team player of year.
Bell says fellow offensive lineman Austin Golson was his biggest influence during his recent recruiting process. Golson shared his transfer experiences with Bell and ultimately helped him choose Auburn over others.
As Bell shared with Coach Malzahn during recruiting, his goals consist of being an all-SEC performer, participating in the Reese's Senior Bowl and being selected in the NFL Draft.
Outside of pursuing his master's degree, Bell spends his time off the field with his 2-year-old daughter, Karter Lynn.
"She is very adventurous," he says. "She likes going to the park and doing little things like playing soccer and throwing the ball with me. She has a lot of energy and is very curious about a lot of things, which she gets from me."
The senior spends time with family off the field but also senses that feeling when on it.
"I grew up with the guys and they're so welcoming which is different from teams I've been on," Bell says. "These guys really treat each other like family. There are no cliques in the locker room; it's just one big family.
"It means a lot. I've always liked the culture and I love the people and fans. I'll always be a part of the Auburn Family."
Christian Page is a student assistant with Auburn athletics communications