VFL star James Bell building momentum in AFL comeback bid

Jackson Clark Published April 17, 2026 at 2.00pm (AWST)

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Former Sydney player James Bell in action for GWS' VFL team. Image: Keith McInnes.

Former Sydney player James Bell has made a strong statement in the early stages of the 2026 VFL season, producing standout performances for Greater Western Sydney as he pushes to revive his AFL career.

Bell has hit the ground running in his new environment, opening the season with an equal game-high 36 disposals against St Kilda, before backing it up with 28 disposals and seven tackles against Collingwood the following week.

His form was rewarded with 19 Coaches Votes, placing him on top of the competition before last weekend.

He also earned selection in the VFL State Team and gathered 18 disposals and seven tackles in their thrilling five-point win over the SANFL in Adelaide.

It continues an encouraging start for the 27-year-old, who joined GWS' VFL program after three strong seasons with Glenelg in the SANFL.

During his time at Glenelg, he became an important part of the Tigers' success, helping the club win back-to-back premierships and reach another grand final in 2025.

As revealed by Zero Hanger, Bell's chance at GWS came after an unexpected phone call from Giants list boss Adrian Caruso.

"They actually spoke to me about another player at Glenelg (Latrelle Pickett), and then just threw a question at the end of talking and said, 'what are you doing with your footy', Bell told Zero Hanger.

"I said, 'funny enough, I actually wanted to put my name out there'. Then (GWS) offered me an AFL training opportunity and play VFL."

James Bell won two premierships in the SANFL with Glenelg. (Image: SANFL/Glenelg FC)

Bell said he had also been in talks with another AFL club before that opportunity fell away.

"I spoke to one club at the end of last year, and I thought it could be happening," he told Zero Hanger.

"When that fell through in the rookie draft, I spoke to (Adrian) Caruso (GWS recruiter) and asked is there an opportunity at the Giants for me?

"(They said) their list at the moment is full, but we'll give you an opportunity to train in the pre-season and play with the VFL and just see how that goes - anything can happen".

There is no doubt Bell has embraced that opportunity.

The former Swan said he now has a different mindset as he chases another AFL chance.

"Since, I've gotten really close with some of the AFL guys and I'm just looking to earn the respect of everyone here, stay grounded, and do this for me," he said.

"I felt when I was playing at the Swans (it) was for everyone else, but now I'm investing in myself, that's the way to go about it."