Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Joey Bosa

How Joey Bosa built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Joey Bosa is an American professional football defensive end, currently playing for the Buffalo Bills in the NFL. A standout college player for the Ohio State Buckeyes, he was drafted third overall by the San Diego Chargers in 2016 and earned the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. He comes from a football family, being the son of former NFL player John Bosa and the older brother of current NFL player Nick Bosa.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

2014: Unanimous All-American and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year

In 2014, Joey Bosa was named a Unanimous All-American and earned Big Ten Conference Defensive Player of the Year. He finished his sophomore year with 13.5 sacks on 55 tackles.

December 31, 2015: Declared for the 2016 NFL Draft

On December 31, 2015, Joey Bosa announced his intentions to enter the 2016 NFL draft.

March 2016: NFL Combine and Draft Projections

In March 2016, Joey Bosa was projected as a top 10 pick in the 2016 NFL draft and received an invitation to the NFL combine, where he met with 13 NFL teams.

2016: Drafted by the San Diego Chargers

In 2016, Joey Bosa was selected in the first round with the third overall selection by the San Diego Chargers in the NFL draft.

December 19, 2017: Named to First Pro Bowl

On December 19, 2017, Joey Bosa was named to his first Pro Bowl after a solid second season.

2017: Named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year

In 2017, Joey Bosa was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year after being limited to 12 games, finishing with 41 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and a forced fumble.

2018: Continued success with the Chargers

In 2018, Joey Bosa had a solid second season with the Chargers, totaling 70 tackles and 12.5 sacks.

2018: Foot Injury and Playoff Debut

In 2018, Joey Bosa suffered a foot injury, sidelining him until Week 11. He made his playoff debut in the Wild Card Round against the Ravens.

April 23, 2019: Chargers Pick Up Fifth-Year Option

On April 23, 2019, the Chargers picked up the fifth-year option on Joey Bosa's contract.

July 28, 2020: Signed Contract Extension with Chargers

On July 28, 2020, Joey Bosa signed a five-year, $135 million contract extension with the Chargers, becoming the highest-paid defensive player in the league.

May 2021: Mental Health Awareness Campaign

In May 2021, Joey Bosa spoke about focusing on physical and mental well-being as part of a Mental Health Awareness Month campaign for the NFL.

2021: Third Pro Bowl Nomination and NFL Top 100 Ranking

In 2021, Joey Bosa earned his third Pro Bowl nomination and was ranked 32nd by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players list.

2022: Fourth Pro Bowl Selection

In 2022, Joey Bosa earned his fourth trip to the Pro Bowl but did not play due to an undisclosed injury. He was ranked 30th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2022 list.