Kelvin Joseph Jr Bio
Kelvin Joseph Jr (born November 11, 1999) is an American professional football cornerback for the DC Defenders of the United Football League (UFL). He was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft. He played college football at Louisiana State University and the University of Kentucky. Joseph has shown promise as a player, transitioning through several teams in the National Football League (NFL) before joining the UFL.
Early Life and Background
Kelvin Joseph was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he attended Scotlandville Magnet High School. During his junior year, he recorded 67 tackles, three interceptions (two of which were returned for touchdowns), and 12 pass breakups, contributing to his team winning the 5A state title. His performance earned him several accolades, including All-District and Class 5A All-State honors. As a senior, he had an impressive season with 113 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and three interceptions, solidifying his reputation as a top defensive player. He also participated in the All-American Bowl and scored a total of 13 touchdowns throughout his high school career from various plays, including punts and interceptions. Joseph committed to play college football at Louisiana State University over offers from prestigious programs such as Alabama and Florida State.
Path to American Football
Joseph began his college football career at Louisiana State University, where he played as a true freshman. He appeared in 11 games, making 12 tackles and breaking up a pass. However, after being suspended for violating team rules, he entered the transfer portal but later withdrew and participated in spring practices. In July 2019, he transferred to the University of Kentucky, where he sat out his sophomore year due to NCAA transfer regulations. As a redshirt sophomore at Kentucky, he started in nine games and recorded 25 tackles, one tackle for loss, and four interceptions, tying for second in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in interceptions. He opted out of the final game of the regular season to prepare for the 2021 NFL draft.
Kelvin Joseph Jr Career
Early Career (2021-2022)
Kelvin Joseph was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the second round (44th overall) of the 2021 NFL draft. He signed a four-year rookie contract with the Cowboys on June 10, 2021. His rookie season was marred by injuries, including a groin injury that placed him on injured reserve at the start of the season. Joseph made his debut on October 30, 2021, and spent most of his rookie season playing on special teams, appearing in 10 games and recording 13 tackles, two pass breakups, and two special teams tackles. In 2022, he was expected to compete for a starting role but primarily played as a core special teams player, appearing in 16 games and registering 13 defensive tackles, two pass breakups, and one forced fumble.
Breakthrough (2023-2024)
In August 2023, Kelvin Joseph was traded to the Miami Dolphins, where he played as a backup cornerback in four games, recording two tackles. He was released in November 2023 and subsequently signed by the Seattle Seahawks, where he was elevated to the active roster for a game against the Tennessee Titans. Joseph’s journey continued as he signed a reserve/future contract with the Kansas City Chiefs in January 2024, contributing to the team’s success in Super Bowl LVIII. After a brief stint with the Indianapolis Colts and the Minnesota Vikings, Joseph signed with the DC Defenders in February 2025, marking a new chapter in his professional career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kelvin Joseph’s signature achievements include being a UFL champion in 2025. His career has been characterized by resilience and adaptability as he navigated through various teams in the NFL before finding a new opportunity in the UFL.
Kelvin Joseph Jr Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kelvin Joseph has not received any notable award nominations, but he has made significant contributions to his teams and continues to develop as a player.
Kelvin Joseph Jr Awards Won
Kelvin Joseph was recognized as a UFL champion in 2025, marking a significant achievement in his professional football career.
Kelvin Joseph Jr Family
There is limited publicly available information regarding Kelvin Joseph’s family background. His parents’ identities have not been disclosed in the available resources.
Personal Life
Kelvin Joseph has pursued a career in music, releasing rap records under the pseudonym “YKDV Bossman Fat,” with YKDV standing for “You Know Da Vibe.” In April 2022, he was involved in a police investigation as a person of interest related to a fatal shooting but was not charged. In June 2025, he faced legal issues after being arrested and charged with DWI following a fatal collision with a motorcycle.
