Josey Jewell Bio
Josey Jewell is an American professional football linebacker currently playing for the Carolina Panthers. He played college football at the University of Iowa, where he earned unanimous All-American honors and was a three-time All-Big Ten selection. Jewell was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 2018 NFL Draft and has built a reputation as a reliable and hardworking defensive player.
Early Life and Background
Josey Jewell was born on December 25, 1994, in Decorah, Iowa. He attended Decorah High School, where he played both linebacker and running back. During his senior year, Jewell rushed for 1,314 yards and scored 21 rushing touchdowns while also recording 81 tackles on defense. His performance helped lead his team to back-to-back 3A State Title Games, winning the championship in 2012 with a decisive 49–21 victory.
Rated as a two-star prospect, Jewell committed to the University of Iowa to continue his football career. His early exposure to football in a small Iowa town laid the foundation for his disciplined and tenacious playing style.
Path to American Football
Jewell redshirted his first year at Iowa in 2013 but quickly progressed to become a key defensive player. In 2014, he appeared in 11 games with four starts, recording 51 tackles and one sack. His sophomore season in 2015 marked a breakout year as he started all 14 games, leading the team with 126 tackles, three sacks, and four interceptions.
Jewell continued to improve in 2016, starting all 13 games and again leading Iowa with 124 tackles. He earned second-team All-Big Ten honors for the second consecutive year and was a finalist for the prestigious Butkus Award. His steady development and leadership on defense positioned him as one of the top linebackers in college football.
Josey Jewell Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
Josey Jewell was selected by the Denver Broncos in the fourth round, 106th overall, in the 2018 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract worth $3.17 million, including a signing bonus of $713,982. Jewell competed for a backup inside linebacker role during training camp and made his NFL debut early in the season.
In just his second NFL game, Jewell recorded two tackles against the Oakland Raiders. His work ethic and football intelligence earned him increased playing time as he adapted to the professional level.
Denver Broncos Breakthrough (2020–2023)
Jewell’s 2020 season featured several standout performances, including a game against the New York Jets where he led the team with ten tackles and recorded two sacks. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses became a key asset for the Broncos’ defense.
In 2021, Jewell faced setbacks due to a pectoral injury that placed him on injured reserve. Despite this, he secured a two-year contract extension with Denver in March 2022, reflecting the team’s confidence in his abilities. Later that year, he recorded two interceptions and nine tackles in a close game against the Kansas City Chiefs, demonstrating his continued impact on the field.
Carolina Panthers Era (2024–Present)
In March 2024, Josey Jewell signed a three-year, $22.75 million contract with the Carolina Panthers. This move marked a new chapter in his career as he joined a team looking to strengthen its defense. Jewell’s experience and leadership are expected to contribute significantly to the Panthers’ linebacker corps.
Driving Style and Strengths
Josey Jewell is known for his disciplined approach, strong tackling ability, and football intelligence. His strengths lie in reading offenses and positioning himself effectively to make plays. Jewell’s consistency and work ethic have made him a dependable presence on the field.
Notable Events and Milestones
Throughout his career, Jewell has earned several accolades, including unanimous All-American honors and multiple Big Ten awards during his college years. His professional milestones include impactful games with multiple sacks and interceptions, showcasing his versatility as a linebacker.
Josey Jewell Career Wins
While primarily a defensive player, Josey Jewell’s career highlights include numerous tackles, sacks, and interceptions that have contributed to team successes. His consistent performance has made him a valuable asset in both college and professional football.
College Highlights
At Iowa, Jewell was a dominant defensive force, leading the team in tackles for multiple seasons. He was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2017 and received the Jack Lambert and Lott Trophies the same year, recognizing his excellence at the linebacker position.
Professional Highlights
In the NFL, Jewell has recorded key tackles and sacks, including a notable game in 2020 with two sacks against the Jets and multiple interceptions in 2022. His ability to make impactful plays has been a hallmark of his professional career.
Josey Jewell Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Details about Josey Jewell’s family background are limited in public records. He hails from Decorah, Iowa, where he developed his football skills during his youth.
Personal Life
Josey Jewell maintains a private personal life with no publicly confirmed information about his spouse or children. He is known to focus on his professional career and community involvement.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season with the Carolina Panthers, Josey Jewell faces health challenges related to lingering concussion symptoms, which led to his release from the team in July 2025. This development has impacted his playing status and future outlook in the NFL.
Despite these setbacks, Jewell’s career achievements and leadership qualities remain significant. His contributions to both the Broncos and Panthers highlight his resilience and dedication to the sport.