Angelo Blackson

Angelo Sierre Blackson Bio

Angelo Sierre Blackson is an American professional football defensive end who has built a durable career in the NFL since being drafted in 2015. He played college football for the Auburn Tigers and was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Over his career, Blackson has been a rotational player for multiple franchises, contributing primarily as a run-stopping defensive end and occasional pass-rushing threat. His journey through the league showcases persistence and adaptability, having suited up for nine different NFL teams in his career.

Early Life and Background

Angelo Sierre Blackson was born on November 14, 1992, in Wilmington, Delaware. He grew up in the Delaware area and attended Red Lion Christian Academy in Bear, Delaware, where he developed his skills as a high school football player. Blackson demonstrated early promise as a defensive lineman during his prep years, building the foundation for his future collegiate career.

Path to Professional Football

After high school, Blackson continued his football journey at the collegiate level. He accepted a scholarship to play for Auburn University, joining the Auburn Tigers football program. Blackson played for the Tigers from 2011 to 2014, developing under the college program’s coaching and competing against some of the top offensive lines in the SEC. His collegiate performance helped raise his draft profile, showcasing his ability to play both interior and edge defensive line positions.

Angelo Sierre Blackson Career

Tennessee Titans (2015–2016)

The Tennessee Titans selected Angelo Sierre Blackson in the fourth round with the 100th overall pick of the 2015 NFL Draft. On May 14, 2015, the Titans signed him to a four-year contract worth $2.85 million with a signing bonus of $571,615. Blackson began his professional career as a rookie with the Titans, working to establish himself in the league. He appeared in games during his two seasons with Tennessee, finishing his tenure with 24 tackles and 2.5 sacks. The Titans waived Blackson on September 2, 2017.

Houston Texans (2017–2019)

Blackson signed with the Houston Texans on November 1, 2017, joining the team mid-season after being on the New England Patriots practice squad. He made an immediate impact with his new team and earned a expanded role in the defense. On March 11, 2019, Blackson signed a three-year contract extension worth $12 million, reflecting the team’s confidence in his contributions. During Week 15 of the 2019 season, Blackson blocked a field goal in a 24-21 victory over his former team, the Titans, earning him AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors. The Texans released him on September 5, 2020.

Chicago Bears (2021–2022)

On March 20, 2021, Blackson signed a two-year contract with the Chicago Bears, joining another franchise in the NFC. He served as a rotational defensive end for the Bears, contributing to their defensive line rotation. His tenure with Chicago provided him continued opportunities to play meaningful snaps in the NFL.

Arizona Cardinals and Other Teams (2020–Present)

Blackson has had multiple stints with the Arizona Cardinals. He first joined the Cardinals on September 8, 2020, after being released by the Texans. He returned to Arizona in September 2024, signing to the practice squad. In 2023, Blackson played for both the Baltimore Ravens and Jacksonville Jaguars, signing with Baltimore in May and joining Jacksonville in August. In April 2024, he signed a one-year deal with the Denver Broncos but was released in August before returning to the Cardinals.

Playing Style and Strengths

Angelo Sierre Blackson lines up as a defensive end in both 4-3 and 3-4 defensive schemes. He stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 318 pounds, giving him the size to anchor against the run while also providing interior push on passing downs. His versatility allows him to slide inside on nickel situations, making him a valuable depth piece for defensive lines. Blackson’s special teams contributions, particularly his blocked field goal against the Titans, highlight his ability to make plays in high-pressure situations.

Notable Events and Milestones

The standout moment of Blackson’s career came during the 2019 season when he blocked a field goal against the Tennessee Titans in Week 15, securing a crucial victory for the Texans and earning AFC Special Teams Player of the Week recognition. His $12 million contract extension signed in March 2019 represented the most significant financial commitment of his career, validating his performance with the Texans. Throughout his career, Blackson has demonstrated durability and adaptability, earning roster spots with multiple franchises through his reliability at the defensive line position.

Angelo Sierre Blackson Career Statistics

Blackson has accumulated career statistics across nine seasons in the NFL with multiple teams. His primary contributions have come as a run defender and situational pass rusher.

NFL Career Highlights

Through the 2023 season, Blackson has recorded 179 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, and 1 interception on defense. He has also contributed 4 fumble recoveries and 8 pass deflections, showcasing his ability to make plays on the ball. His single forced fumble and consistent tackle numbers reflect his role as a reliable defender against the run. His career-best statistical seasons came during his time with the Houston Texans, where he earned the most playing time and defensive responsibilities.

Season-by-Season Performance

Blackson’s early seasons with the Titans saw him accumulate 24 tackles and 2.5 sacks while developing as a young professional. His time with the Texans from 2017 to 2019 represented his most productive stretch, including the standout 2019 campaign that featured his AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honor. The following seasons with the Cardinals, Bears, Ravens, Jaguars, and Broncos showed his ability to contribute as a depth player, maintaining his presence in the league through versatility and reliability.

Angelo Sierre Blackson Personal Life

Education

Blackson completed his high school education at Red Lion Christian Academy in Bear, Delaware, before pursuing college football at Auburn University. His journey from high school in Delaware through the SEC at Auburn and into the NFL represents a pathway that many aspiring football players dream of achieving.

Physical Profile

Standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 318 pounds, Angelo Sierre Blackson possesses the prototypical size for an NFL defensive end. His listed measurements of 1.93 meters in height and 144 kilograms in weight reflect his imposing frame that serves him well in his role along the defensive line.

2025 Season Outlook

Angelo Sierre Blackson remains with the Arizona Cardinals organization as of 2024, having joined their practice squad in September. His trajectory suggests continued work as a veteran depth player along the defensive line. The Cardinals signed him for his experience and versatility, providing insurance at the defensive end position. Blackson’s ability to contribute on special teams and slide between defensive line spots keeps him valuable as a veteran presence. His persistence through multiple team tenures demonstrates his commitment to continuing his NFL career into the 2025 season and beyond.