Johnathan Joseph

Lore & Background

Joseph began his college football career at Coffeyville Community College in 2003, then transferred to the University of South Carolina, where he played in 2004 and 2005. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the first round (24th overall) of the 2006 NFL draft. He played for the Bengals from 2006 through 2010, earning a reputation as a top cornerback. He later played for the Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans, and Arizona Cardinals.

Reader's Guide

Joseph was a first-round pick by the Bengals in 2006. He started his rookie season as a nickelback but became a full-time starter by midseason. In 2007, he recorded his first career interception and returned it for a touchdown. He missed games in 2008 due to ankle and foot injuries. In 2009, he had a career-high six interceptions and was named co-MVP of the Bengals with Leon Hall. He played for the Texans after his Bengals tenure.

Did You Know?

• Joseph ran a 4.31 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, which dramatically improved his draft stock.
• He intercepted a pass in three consecutive games in 2009, the longest streak of his career.
• In 2009, Sports Illustrated writer Peter King called Joseph and Leon Hall 'the best tandem in the NFL.'
• Joseph was ranked the sixth-best cornerback by Pro Football Focus in 2009.