Jonathan James Owens Bio
Jonathan James Owens, born July 22, 1995, is an American professional football safety currently playing for the Chicago Bears in the National Football League (NFL). Owens began his football career at Missouri Western State University before entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2018. Throughout his professional career, he has played for the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, Green Bay Packers, and now the Chicago Bears. He is married to renowned American artistic gymnast Simone Biles.
Early Life and Background
Jonathan Owens was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and attended Christian Brothers College High School (CBC) where he played football under coach Scott Pingel. During his high school career, Owens earned the honor of CBC Linebacker of the Year, highlighting his early promise in the sport. Prior to high school, he attended Loyola Academy of St. Louis for middle school.
Owens continued his education and athletic development at Missouri Western State University from 2013 to 2017. After redshirting his first year, he played defensive back for the Missouri Western Griffons. He was recognized as the Male Student-Athlete of the Year in his final season and earned second-team all-Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) honors. Academically, Owens was consistently on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll and majored in pre-physical therapy with aspirations of becoming a doctor.
Path to American Football
Owens’ collegiate career at Missouri Western State University was marked by steady improvement and recognition in the MIAA conference. His performance on the field and academic achievements positioned him as a strong candidate for professional football despite not being selected in the NFL Draft. His determination and skill earned him an opportunity to sign as an undrafted free agent with the Arizona Cardinals in 2018.
Jonathan James Owens Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
Owens signed with the Arizona Cardinals following the 2018 NFL Draft but spent his rookie season on injured reserve due to an injury sustained during organized team activities. He was waived by the Cardinals before the 2019 season began. This early setback did not deter Owens, as he soon found a new opportunity with the Houston Texans.
Houston Texans Era (2019–2022)
Owens joined the Houston Texans practice squad in September 2019 and was promoted to the active roster later that year. Although waived and re-signed multiple times, he secured a reserve/future contract with the Texans in January 2020. Owens gradually established himself as a reliable safety, earning a two-year contract extension in December 2021. He recorded his first career interception and fumble recovery in a key upset win over the Los Angeles Chargers that same month. Unfortunately, his 2021 season ended early due to a dislocated wrist that placed him on injured reserve.
Green Bay Packers Tenure (2023)
In May 2023, Owens signed with the Green Bay Packers. During the Thanksgiving Day game against the Detroit Lions, he scored his first career touchdown on a 27-yard fumble recovery, contributing to the Packers’ 29–22 victory. This milestone was a highlight in his tenure with the Packers.
Chicago Bears Era (2024–Present)
Owens signed a two-year contract with the Chicago Bears in March 2024. In the season opener against the Tennessee Titans, he scored the Bears’ first touchdown of the season by returning a blocked punt, helping secure a 24–17 win. Later in the season, he recorded his second career interception against the San Francisco 49ers. Owens continues to be a key contributor to the Bears’ defense.
Driving Style and Strengths
Jonathan Owens is known for his versatility and strong defensive instincts as a safety. His ability to read plays and execute timely interceptions and fumble recoveries demonstrates his strategic understanding of the game. Owens’ special teams contributions, including scoring touchdowns on blocked punts and fumble recoveries, highlight his value beyond traditional defensive roles.
Notable Events and Milestones
Owens’ first career touchdown came during a Thanksgiving Day game with the Green Bay Packers in 2023, a memorable moment that showcased his playmaking ability. His interception and fumble recovery in the Texans’ upset over the Chargers in 2021 marked a career-defining performance. Owens’ return of a blocked punt for a touchdown in the 2024 season opener with the Bears further underscores his impact on special teams.
Jonathan James Owens Career Wins
While primarily a defensive player, Jonathan Owens has contributed significantly to his teams’ successes through key plays and touchdowns on special teams. His career highlights include important interceptions, fumble recoveries, and scoring plays that have helped secure victories across multiple NFL seasons.
NFL Highlights
Owens’ first touchdown came in 2023 with the Green Bay Packers on a fumble recovery. In 2024, he scored again with the Chicago Bears on a blocked punt return. His defensive plays, including interceptions and fumble recoveries, have been pivotal in several games, notably during his time with the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears.
Other Performances
Owens’ steady presence on special teams and defense has made him a valuable player for every team he has joined. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game has earned him recognition and contract extensions, reflecting his importance to team dynamics.
Jonathan James Owens Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Jonathan Owens is married to Simone Biles, one of the most decorated American artistic gymnasts in history. The couple announced their engagement in February 2022 and married in April 2023. Their relationship has attracted significant public attention, including discussions around their dynamic and Owens’ candid remarks in interviews. Owens was granted time off from Chicago Bears training camp to support Biles at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
2025 Season Performance
Looking ahead to the 2025 NFL season, Jonathan Owens is expected to continue his role as a key safety and special teams contributor for the Chicago Bears. His contract through 2026 provides stability, and his recent performances indicate positive momentum. Owens’ experience across multiple teams and his demonstrated playmaking ability position him as an important player in the Bears’ defensive plans for the upcoming seasons.