Joey Bosa

Player Information

Joseph Anthony Bosa is an American professional football defensive end for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes and was selected third overall by the then San Diego Chargers in the 2016 NFL draft, where he was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. He is the son of former NFL player John Bosa and the older brother of current NFL player Nick Bosa.
Birthdate:
11 July 1995
Full Name:
Joseph Anthony Bosa
Birthplace:
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
Nationality:
United States
Gender:
Male
Height (cm):
196
Weight (kg):
127
Education:
St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) (High School), Ohio State University (College)
Career Started:
2016
Notable Achievements:
NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (2016), Pro Bowl (2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024), Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year (2014)
Awards:
NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (Win Year 2016), 5× Pro Bowl (Win Year 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024)
Current Team:
Contract:
Contract Year 2025 to 2026, Salary $12,600,000 USD
Draft Year:
2016
Drafted By:
San Diego Chargers
Previous Teams:
San Diego / Los Angeles Chargers (From 2016, To 2024)
Player Active:
From - 2016, To - Present

Joseph Anthony Bosa Bio

Joseph Anthony Bosa is an American professional football defensive end for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ohio State Buckeyes and was selected third overall by the then San Diego Chargers in the 2016 NFL Draft, where he was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. He is the son of former NFL player John Bosa and the older brother of current NFL player Nick Bosa. Bosa has established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the league, known for his athleticism and ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

Early Life and Background

Joseph Anthony Bosa was born on July 11, 1995, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He attended St. Thomas Aquinas High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. Bosa was highly regarded as a four-star recruit and was ranked as one of the top defensive ends in his class. His commitment to play college football at Ohio State University came in April 2012, setting the stage for his future success in the sport.

Path to American Football

Bosa’s college career at Ohio State was marked by numerous accolades. As a true freshman in 2013, he started 10 of 14 games, recording 44 tackles and 7.5 sacks. His impressive performance earned him recognition as a Freshman All-American. In 2014, he was named a Unanimous All-American and the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, solidifying his status as a top prospect for the NFL. After declaring for the NFL Draft following his junior season, Bosa was selected by the San Diego Chargers, marking the beginning of his professional career.

Joseph Anthony Bosa Career

Early Career (2016-2018)

Bosa was drafted in the first round as the third overall pick by the San Diego Chargers in the 2016 NFL Draft. He made an immediate impact, despite missing the first four games of his rookie season due to a hamstring injury. Bosa debuted against the Oakland Raiders, recording two sacks and earning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. He continued to build on his success, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2017 and establishing himself as a key player for the Chargers.

Breakthrough (2019-2021)

Bosa’s second season saw him continue to excel, forming a formidable pass-rushing duo with teammate Melvin Ingram. He recorded 12.5 sacks, earning his first Pro Bowl selection. In 2020, he signed a five-year, $135 million contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league. Bosa’s performance in 2021 included a career-high seven forced fumbles, further cementing his reputation as a top-tier defensive end.

Notable Works and Milestones

Throughout his career, Joseph Bosa has been recognized with numerous awards, including the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2016 and five Pro Bowl selections from 2017 to 2024. His contributions on the field have made him a significant figure in the NFL, known for his ability to disrupt plays and pressure quarterbacks.

Joseph Anthony Bosa Award Nominations

Joseph Bosa has received multiple nominations throughout his career, including his recognition as NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and several Pro Bowl selections, showcasing his impact on the field and his standing among peers.

Joseph Anthony Bosa Awards Won

Bosa has won several prestigious awards, including the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2016 and being named to the Pro Bowl five times. These accolades highlight his exceptional talent and contributions to the sport.

Joseph Anthony Bosa Family

Joseph Bosa comes from a family with a rich football heritage. His father, John Bosa, played in the NFL, and his brother, Nick Bosa, is also a professional football player currently with the San Francisco 49ers. This familial connection to the sport has played a significant role in shaping Joseph’s career.

Personal Life

Joseph Bosa has been open about his commitment to mental health awareness and pediatric cancer research. He has participated in initiatives to support these causes, including wearing custom cleats during games to raise awareness. Bosa is known for his unique heterochromia, having one blue eye and one green eye, which adds to his distinctive presence both on and off the field.