For the past two years, Naperville North students have had the treat to watch their star quarterback, senior Jacob Bell, on the football field. Bell has had countless accomplishments throughout his high school football career, but he wouldn’t have become as successful as he is without his support system behind him.
This season, Bell’s achievements include multiple broken records for NNHS. In 2024, Bell broke the record for most touchdown passes in a season, most passing yards in a season, most touchdown passes in a single game and most points in a game. Bell details how his loved ones and fellow players enabled him to excel.
“I give almost all the credit to my amazing support system of parents, siblings, coaches, teammates and friends. They keep me grounded and hold me accountable because they want to see me succeed,” Bell said.
Bell began his football journey when he was just six years old in the Naperville Youth Football league. His father, Joe Bell, coached him, and since then, Bell has been involved in organized football. Bell also witnessed his older brothers Joe Bell and Jon Bell navigate their own football careers at Naperville North, getting to observe Jon, who is now a quarterback at South Dakota State, continue his football career in college. NNHS varsity football Head Coach Sean Drendel, who coached both Joe and Jon, reflects on what the two older Bell brothers were like on North’s team and their influence on Bell.
“Both of them have been unbelievable role models. Joe, his oldest brother was a receiver and Jon is a college quarterback now, and I think that’s where Jacob found the love to play quarterback and he’s followed their path but has made his own mark as well,” Drendel said.
Bell has received support, encouragement and motivation from not just his family, but his team members as well. Bell believes that the Naperville North varsity football team is a home away from home.
“It is a true family. I have grown up with the players and coaches and I feel like I am going to war when we go into games together. I am excited to play in college but know that the family atmosphere will be unmatched,” Bell said.
Although Bell has had numerous accomplishments and victories throughout his athletic career North, he hasn’t gone without challenges. In the past, Bell’s biggest struggle has been his confidence and believing in himself. However, throughout his senior season, he has been able to block out his negative thoughts to be in the best mindset possible for the game; his record breaking year has reflected that.
“This year, I go into every game ready and head high and it has shown in my performance,” Bell said.
Bell has committed to continue his football career at Ball State University next year.
