Bilal Nichols Bio
Bilal Shakur Nichols (born September 14, 1996) is an American professional football defensive end currently playing for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL). The Newark, Delaware native was selected by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft after a standout college career at the University of Delaware. Nichols has built a solid NFL career spanning seven seasons with three franchises, known for his versatility along the defensive line and consistent production against both the run and pass.
Early Life and Background
Bilal Shakur Nichols was born on September 14, 1996, in Newark, Delaware. He attended Hodgson Vo-Tech High School in Glasgow, Delaware, where he began developing his skills as a defensive lineman. Nichols demonstrated athletic promise during his high school years, laying the foundation for his future football career at the collegiate level.
Path to Professional Football
After graduating from high school, Nichols continued his football journey at the University of Delaware. He played for the Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens from 2014 through 2017, developing into a reliable presence on the defensive line. During his senior season in 2017, Nichols recorded 56 tackles including 6.5 for loss, 5.5 sacks, one interception, four pass break-ups, and a blocked kick. His outstanding performance earned him First-team All-Colonial Athletic Association honors, signaling his readiness for the professional level.
Bilal Nichols Career
Chicago Bears (2018–2021)
Nichols was selected by the Chicago Bears with the 145th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. His first NFL start came in Week 10 of the 2018 season against the Detroit Lions, where he recorded his first full sack on quarterback Matthew Stafford during a 34-22 victory. He added a second sack in the season finale against the Minnesota Vikings’ Kirk Cousins as the Bears won 24-10, capping off a promising rookie campaign.
The 2019 season presented challenges when Nichols suffered a broken hand in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos. Upon his return, he primarily filled in for the injured Akiem Hicks at tackle. In the final game of that year against Minnesota, he recovered a fumble by Mike Boone on the Vikings’ opening drive. After nose tackle Eddie Goldman opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns, Nichols took over his starting role. In Week 6 against the Carolina Panthers, he sacked Teddy Bridgewater at the one-yard line, setting up a Bears touchdown on the ensuing play. In Week 13 against Detroit, Nichols recorded a sack and his first career interception off Matthew Stafford, returning it seven yards during a 34-30 loss. He became the first Bears defensive tackle to intercept a pass since Tommie Harris in 2009.
Las Vegas Raiders (2022–2023)
On March 17, 2022, Nichols signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. He provided valuable depth and versatility along the Raiders’ defensive front during his two seasons with the franchise. During the Raiders’ Week 16 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023, Nichols recovered a fumble by quarterback Patrick Mahomes and returned it eight yards for his first career touchdown, a memorable highlight in his Raiders tenure.
Arizona Cardinals (2024–Present)
Nichols joined the Arizona Cardinals on March 14, 2024, signing a three-year contract. He made six appearances with five starts for Arizona in 2024, recording 10 combined tackles before being placed on season-ending injured reserve on October 15 due to a stinger injury. The 2025 season saw Nichols begin on the reserve/PUP list while recovering from a neck injury before being activated before Week 5. In four appearances for Arizona, he compiled three combined tackles. On December 13, 2025, Nichols was placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury, ending his season prematurely. On March 6, 2026, Nichols was released by the Cardinals.
Playing Style and Strengths
Nichols is known for his versatility along the defensive line, capable of playing multiple techniques and contributing against both the run and passing games. His ability to generate interior pressure, combined with his instincts for making plays in the backfield, has made him a reliable rotational piece throughout his NFL career. Nichols demonstrates solid hand techniques and the burst to collapse pockets from the interior, while also showing the awareness to drop into coverage when needed.
Notable Events and Milestones
Throughout his career, Nichols has achieved several notable milestones. His first career interception against Matthew Stafford in 2020 marked a rare feat for a defensive tackle, making him the first Bears player at his position to pick off a pass since 2009. His fumble recovery touchdown against Patrick Mahomes in 2023 provided one of the defining moments of his Las Vegas tenure. His First-team All-CAA selection in 2017 remains a significant collegiate achievement that helped launch his professional career.
Bilal Nichols Career Statistics
Across seven NFL seasons with the Chicago Bears, Las Vegas Raiders, and Arizona Cardinals, Nichols has established himself as a consistent contributor along the defensive front. His career totals reflect his reliability against both the run and pass, with his 14 career sacks demonstrating his ability to pressure quarterbacks from the interior.
NFL Career Highlights
Nichols’ 251 career tackles showcase his durability and ability to be on the field for multiple downs. His 14 sacks represent a solid pass-rushing presence from the interior, while his two forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries highlight his ability to create turnovers. The one interception in his career stands out as an unusual achievement for a defensive lineman, demonstrating his versatility and football instincts.
| Statistic | Career Total |
|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 251 |
| Sacks | 14 |
| Forced Fumbles | 2 |
| Fumble Recoveries | 5 |
| Pass Deflections | 6 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
Bilal Nichols Family
Personal Life
Nichols maintains his connection to his Delaware roots, having played his high school and college football in the state before launching his professional career. He continues to draw on the lessons and development from his formative years in Newark and the Delaware football community.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season proved challenging for Nichols as he battled through injuries. Beginning the year on the reserve/PUP list while recovering from a neck injury sustained in 2024, he was activated before Week 5 but saw limited action. A knee injury in December ended his season prematurely, resulting in his placement on injured reserve. The injury-plagued campaign limited him to just four appearances and three combined tackles. Following the season, Nichols was released by the Cardinals on March 6, 2026, making him available to sign with another team as he continues his NFL career.