Josh Blackwell, a Buford graduate, signs a two-year contract to remain with the Chicago Bears.
In a move that solidifies their secondary depth and underscores their belief in his potential, the Chicago Bears have signed cornerback Josh Blackwell to a two-year contract extension. The Buford High School graduate, who made a name for himself with his speed, coverage skills, and work ethic, will remain a part of the Bears’ defense as they continue to rebuild and strengthen their roster.
From Buford to the NFL
Josh Blackwell’s journey to the NFL has been defined by perseverance, dedication, and talent. A standout player at Buford High School in Georgia, Blackwell demonstrated his potential early on as a lockdown defensive back with elite speed. His performances at the high school level earned him a scholarship to Duke University, where he further honed his craft.
At Duke, Blackwell became a reliable presence in the secondary, showcasing his ability to break up passes, read offensive plays, and contribute on special teams. Despite going undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft, he was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent before being waived and subsequently claimed by the Chicago Bears.
Emerging as a Key Contributor
Blackwell’s arrival in Chicago marked the beginning of an opportunity that he would fully embrace. During the 2022 season, he quickly made an impression on the Bears’ coaching staff with his strong performances on special teams and in limited defensive snaps. His speed, agility, and ability to play both inside and outside cornerback positions allowed him to carve out a role in the team’s rotation.
By the 2023 season, Blackwell had proven himself as a valuable depth piece in the secondary. He played in multiple games, contributing as a rotational cornerback and a standout special teams player. His ability to adapt to different defensive schemes and match up against fast receivers made him an asset to the Bears’ defense.
Chicago’s Investment in Blackwell
Recognizing his growth and potential, the Bears have rewarded Blackwell with a two-year contract extension. While financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, the move indicates the team’s commitment to retaining young talent and fostering continuity in their defensive backfield.
For Blackwell, this contract represents more than just job security—it is a testament to his hard work and ability to prove himself at the professional level. His journey from an undrafted free agent to earning a multi-year contract in the NFL is a success story that speaks to his determination and resilience.
What This Means for the Bears
The Chicago Bears are in the midst of a rebuilding phase, aiming to strengthen their roster under head coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles. Securing Blackwell for two more years aligns with their strategy of maintaining a strong defensive unit while developing young talent.
Blackwell’s continued presence in the secondary provides depth behind starters like Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon. Given his versatility and experience on special teams, he remains a key piece in the Bears’ defensive rotation. His speed and ability to cover quick receivers make him an ideal fit for the team’s defensive schemes.
With the NFL evolving into a pass-heavy league, cornerbacks who can hold their own against explosive offenses are invaluable. Blackwell’s continued development will be crucial as the Bears look to improve their pass defense and compete in a highly competitive NFC North.
Looking Ahead
As Blackwell enters the next phase of his career, he has the opportunity to further solidify his role in Chicago. If he continues to improve and earn playing time, he could emerge as a more significant contributor in the Bears’ secondary.
For now, his journey remains an inspiring one—a reminder that perseverance, hard work, and seizing opportunities can lead to success at the highest level of football. The Chicago Bears have placed their faith in him, and Blackwell is ready to prove that their investment was a wise one.
