Demetress Carte Bell, famously known as the son of NBA legend Karl Malone, has made a name for himself in the NFL. His journey from an unknown high school student to a notable offensive tackle is truly inspiring. In this article, we delve into his early life, his incredible journey in the NFL, and his complex relationship with his father.
Early Life and College Career
The Birth of an Athlete
Born on May 3, 1984, Demetress Carte Bell is the son of Gloria Bell, who was just 13 years old at the time, and a promising 20-year-old college basketball player, Karl Malone. Demetress grew up in Summerfield, Louisiana, where his mother’s determination and strength shaped his early years.
High School Years
Unlike his famous father, Demetress took more interest in softball during his teenage years. His high school didn’t have a football team, meaning he had no formal experience in organized football.
Making the Switch to Football in College
Demetress attended Northwestern State University, where he initially red-shirted the 2005 basketball season. His path took a drastic turn when he decided to try out for the university’s football team, initially playing as a defensive end due to injuries in the offensive line. Soon, he was moved to the left tackle position, where he quickly gained recognition, earning All-Louisiana honours.
In his senior season in 2007, he fully committed to football, earning more accolades and catching the attention of the NFL scouts.
Demetress Bell’s NFL Journey
Rookie Season: 2008 Draft
In 2008, the Buffalo Bills drafted Demetress in the seventh round of the NFL Draft, recognizing his potential despite his limited football experience. He spent the season on the active roster but saw no regular-season action.
Breakthrough and Challenges: 2009-2012
Demetress’s breakthrough came in the 2009 season when he was named the starting left attack. Although he faced challenges and a knee injury that ended his season early, he put up a commendable performance. In 2012, he moved on to the Philadelphia Eagles with a significant contract. However, injuries hindered his progress, leading to his release in 2013.
A Brief Stint with the Cowboys
After leaving the Eagles, Demetress joined the Dallas Cowboys, albeit briefly, before leaving the NFL.
The Complexity of Father-Son Relationship
Early Struggles and Strained Relations
Demetress’s relationship with his father, Karl Malone, has been fraught with challenges. Limited interactions during his early years and a lawsuit in 1996 over paternity claims resulted in a strained relationship.
A Renewed Bond
Over the years, their relationship has seen positive change. In 2014, both took steps towards rebuilding their relationship, leading to a stronger bond and regular communication between them.
Twitter Reactions to Karl Malone’s Recent Appearance
Recently, Karl Malone made an appearance at UFC 291 in Salt Lake City, Utah, which ignited various reactions on Twitter. From cheers to boos, the Twitterverse mirrored the complex feelings towards the basketball icon.
In conclusion, Demetress Carte Bell’s journey from an underdog to a recognized NFL player is a testament to his resilience and dedication. His complex relationship with his father, Karl Malone, adds a unique dimension to his inspiring story.
