Josh Blackwell

Josh Blackwell (born April 5, 1999) is an American professional football cornerback and return specialist for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Duke Blue Devils.

Professional career

Philadelphia Eagles After going unselected in the 2022 NFL draft, Blackwell was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent. He was waived by Philadelphia on August 30, 2022, as part of the team's final roster cuts.

Chicago Bears On August 31, 2022, Blackwell was claimed off waivers by the Chicago Bears. On January 4, 2023, he was placed on injured reserve.

Blackwell entered the 2023 season as a backup cornerback. He suffered a hamstring injury in Week 3 and was placed on injured reserve on September 29, 2023. He was activated on November 9.

During the 2024 season, Blackwell was occasionally tasked with returning punts. In the final game against the Green Bay Packers, he scored his first NFL touchdown on a 94-yard punt return, giving the Bears an early 7–0 lead. The Bears went on to win 24–22, and Blackwell was named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance.

On March 6, 2025, Blackwell signed a two-year contract extension with the Bears. In Week 4, he blocked a game-winning field goal attempt to preserve the Bears' 25–24 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. In Week 16 against the Green Bay Packers, Blackwell recovered a Cairo Santos onside kick late in the fourth quarter, helping propel Chicago to an eventual 22-16 overtime victory.