Demetress Bell started his football career in college, something that rarely happens. 

Bell made the most of his move, becoming an NFL Draft pick who played for three teams and started almost three dozen games as a pro.

He was recognized as the first Exchange Bank Demon Great of the Game of 2018 during a first-quarter timeout last Saturday as Northwestern State opened its home season with a 34-7 win over Grambling at Turpin Stadium.

An all-state basketball standout at Summerfield High in Claiborne Parish, Bell came to NSU to play for Coach Mike McConathy, and left campus with a college degree as an NFL Draft pick.

Bell had never played football before his sophomore year at NSU, but developed into an outstanding offensive tackle, earning first-team All-Southland Conference and All-America honors as a senior.

In the NFL, Bell became a starter in 35 games for Buffalo and Philadelphia, and also played for Dallas.

Joining him on the field for the presentation during the home opener were Mike Newton, president of Exchange Bank and Trust, and NSU athletics director Greg Burke. 

A Demon Great of the Game is spotlighted at each home football game. In its first five seasons, the Great of the Game presented by Exchange Bank and Trust has honored 25 outstanding figures in the 110-year history of NSU athletics.
 
Exchange Bank and Trust has been a key supporter of NSU Athletics throughout its long history as the oldest financial institution in Louisiana.