Carlos Basham Jr. Bio
Carlos “Boogie” Basham Jr. is an American professional football linebacker for the Las Vegas Raiders of the National Football League (NFL). Born on December 16, 1997, in Roanoke, Virginia, Basham made a name for himself as a standout player at Wake Forest University, where he played college football after committing to the program in high school. Selected by the Buffalo Bills in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft, Basham has proven himself to be an effective linebacker, known for his athleticism and playmaking abilities.
Early Life and Background
Carlos Basham Jr. grew up in Roanoke, Virginia, where he attended Northside High School. During his senior year, he showcased his talent on the football field, recording 76 tackles and seven sacks, which helped him gain recognition as a promising athlete. His impressive performance led him to commit to Wake Forest University, where he continued to develop his skills and passion for the game. Basham’s time at Wake Forest was marked by significant growth, both as a player and as an individual. Basham played college football for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons from 2016 to 2020. After redshirting his first year, he participated in all 13 games in 2017, making 24 tackles. His junior year in 2018 saw him elevate his game further, achieving 64 tackles and 4.5 sacks. In 2019, he returned as a starter and earned First-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors for his outstanding performance. He decided to return for his senior season in 2020, solidifying his status as a key player for the team.
Path to American Football
Carlos Basham’s journey to professional football began with his high school achievements, which laid the groundwork for his collegiate success. His commitment to Wake Forest University allowed him to refine his skills and gain valuable experience on the field. Throughout his college career, he received mentorship from coaches and teammates, which helped him transition smoothly into the NFL. In the 2021 NFL Draft, Basham was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the second round as the 61st overall pick. This marked a significant milestone in his career, as he transitioned from college football to the professional level. His early achievements in the NFL included notable performances that showcased his potential as a linebacker.
Carlos Basham Jr. Career
Early Career (2021–2022)
Carlos Basham made his NFL debut with the Buffalo Bills in 2021. As a rookie, he appeared in eight games, finishing the season with 2.5 sacks and 18 total tackles. His performance in the league was promising, and he quickly became known for his ability to make impactful plays on defense. In the 2022 season, Basham played in 15 games, where he recorded two sacks, 19 total tackles, one interception, and a fumble recovery. One of his standout moments came during the Bills’ Wild Card Round win over the Miami Dolphins, where he recorded a sack.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
In August 2023, Carlos Basham was traded to the New York Giants, where he continued to showcase his skills. He appeared in 13 games during the 2023 season, contributing to the team’s defensive efforts. However, his time with the Giants was marked by challenges, including being waived and later re-signed to the practice squad. Following his stint with the Giants, Basham signed a reserve/future contract with the Carolina Panthers in January 2025. He was released in August but quickly re-signed to the practice squad. On October 18, 2025, he was elevated from the practice squad for a game against the New York Jets, demonstrating his resilience and determination to succeed in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Carlos Basham has earned recognition for his contributions on the field. His accolades include First-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors during his college career and impactful performances in the NFL. As of 2024, he has recorded a total of 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and one interception, showcasing his growth as a player.
Carlos Basham Jr. Award Nominations
Carlos Basham has received several accolades throughout his career, particularly during his time at Wake Forest University, where he was recognized for his exceptional performance on the field.
Carlos Basham Jr. Awards Won
Carlos Basham has achieved notable awards, including First-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference in 2019 and Third-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference in 2020, reflecting his talent and dedication to the sport.
Carlos Basham Jr. Family
Information regarding Carlos Basham’s family is limited, but he is known to be the cousin of NFL defensive end Tarell Basham, indicating a familial connection to professional football.
Personal Life
Carlos Basham gained his nickname “Boogie” due to his fondness for dancing in his youth. While specific details about his personal life remain private, his passion for football and dedication to the sport are evident in his career achievements.