Linval Joseph Bio
Linval Clement Joseph (born October 10, 1988) is an American professional football defensive tackle. He played college football for the East Carolina Pirates. He was selected by the New York Giants in the second round, 46th overall of the 2010 NFL draft. He has also played for the Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills, and Dallas Cowboys.
Early Life and Background
Linval Joseph was born in Christiansted, Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. He attended Santa Fe High School in Alachua, Florida, where he was a four-year letterman in football for the Raiders. Joseph was a two-time All-state selection as a junior and senior, as well as an All-region selection. In addition to football, he also excelled in powerlifting and track, earning a total of 10 varsity letters. Joseph recorded impressive lifts in powerlifting and was a top performer in throwing events in track and field, winning several state titles.
Path to American Football
Regarded as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com, Joseph was featured in the 2007 Rivals Recruiting Yearbook. He was rated as the 44th-ranked defensive tackle nationally and was considered among the region’s top prospects. Joseph attended East Carolina University from 2007 to 2009, where he totaled 143 tackles, including 29.5 for loss and 6.5 sacks. He was named first-team All-Conference USA as a junior in 2009, leading to his decision to enter the 2010 NFL draft.
Linval Joseph Career
Early Career (2010–2013)
Linval Joseph was selected by the New York Giants with the 46th overall pick in the second round of the 2010 NFL draft. He signed with the Giants on July 31, 2010, but was inactive for 10 games in his rookie season, finishing with eight combined tackles. In his second year, he became a full-time starter, recording his first career sack and contributing to the Giants’ Super Bowl XLVI victory over the New England Patriots, where he had two tackles.
Breakthrough (2014–2019)
On March 11, 2014, Joseph signed a five-year, $31.5 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings. He quickly made an impact, finishing his first season with the Vikings with three sacks and 47 total tackles. Joseph was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2017 and earned a second selection in 2018. He became known for his defensive prowess, finishing third on the team in total tackles and tying his career high with four sacks in 2018.
Notable Works and Milestones
Joseph’s signature work includes his contributions to the New York Giants’ Super Bowl championship and his Pro Bowl selections. He has been recognized for his defensive skills, including a memorable 65-yard touchdown off a fumble recovery during the 2018 season.
Linval Joseph Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Linval Joseph has received several nominations, including two Pro Bowl selections in 2017 and 2018, showcasing his impact as a defensive tackle in the NFL.
Linval Joseph Awards Won
Linval Joseph has won notable awards, including a Super Bowl championship in 2011 and two Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017, marking significant achievements in his professional football career.
Linval Joseph Family
Information regarding Linval Joseph’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Linval Joseph’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed.