Angelo Blackson Bio
Angelo Sierre Blackson is an American professional football defensive end who has built a journeyman career across the National Football League since 2015. Known for his size and run-stopping ability on the defensive line, Blackson has played for multiple franchises, contributing primarily as a rotational defensive lineman and special teams player. He first entered the league after a successful college career at Auburn University and has continued to find roster opportunities through practice squad signings and short-term deals.
Born on November 14, 1992, Blackson has remained active in professional football into the mid-2020s, demonstrating durability and adaptability. His professional journey has included stints with several teams across the AFC and NFC, reflecting the typical path of a fourth-round draft pick who extends his career through persistence and role-player value.
Early Life and Background
Angelo Sierre Blackson was born on November 14, 1992, in Wilmington, Delaware, in the United States. Wilmington, located in the northeastern corner of Delaware, provided a competitive athletic environment for Blackson during his formative years. Growing up in the region, he developed an early interest in football, which would eventually shape his career path.
Blackson attended Red Lion Christian Academy, where he played high school football and began attracting attention from college recruiters. His performance at the academy level helped him secure an opportunity to play at a major college football program, setting the stage for his transition to the Southeastern Conference.
Path to American Football
Blackson committed to Auburn University, where he played college football for the Auburn Tigers from 2011 to 2014. During his time at Auburn, he developed into a defensive lineman capable of contributing in both run defense and pass-rush situations. His development under the Auburn coaching staff prepared him for the next level, and his combination of size and athleticism made him an intriguing prospect heading into the NFL draft process.
After completing his senior season with the Tigers, Blackson declared for the 2015 NFL draft. His college resume and physical tools were enough to convince the Tennessee Titans to select him in the fourth round, marking the official start of his professional football career.
Angelo Blackson Career
Early Career (2015-2016)
The Tennessee Titans selected Angelo Blackson in the fourth round, 100th overall, of the 2015 NFL draft. Shortly after the draft, on May 14, 2015, the Titans signed him to a four-year rookie contract worth $2.85 million, including a signing bonus of $571,615. Blackson spent his first two NFL seasons in Tennessee, working to establish himself as a rotational defensive end and contributing on special teams.
During his time with the Titans, Blackson recorded 24 tackles and 2.5 sacks across his appearances. Although he did not emerge as a full-time starter, his physical presence and willingness to play in multiple defensive line roles kept him on the roster. On September 2, 2017, the Titans waived Blackson, ending his initial stint with the organization.
Tennessee Titans Era (2015-2017)
Following his release from Tennessee, Blackson quickly found a new opportunity. On September 4, 2017, he signed with the practice squad of the New England Patriots. However, his time in New England was short, as the Houston Texans signed him off the Patriots’ practice squad on November 1, 2017.
Blackson’s midseason move to Houston marked the beginning of his most stable NFL stretch. He integrated into the Texans’ defensive line rotation and earned a longer commitment from the franchise.
Houston Texans Era (2017-2020)
During the remainder of the 2017 season and through 2018, Blackson continued to develop with the Houston Texans, taking on a depth role along the defensive front. On March 11, 2019, his value to the organization was rewarded with a three-year, $12 million contract extension, a significant commitment that reflected the Texans’ confidence in his contributions.
In Week 15 of the 2019 season, Blackson delivered one of his most memorable NFL moments when he blocked a field goal in a 24-21 win over the Tennessee Titans, earning AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors. The play underscored his effort and awareness on special teams. However, on September 5, 2020, Blackson was released by the Texans, ending a productive multi-year chapter with the organization.
Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears Era (2020-2022)
On September 8, 2020, shortly after his release from Houston, Blackson signed with the Arizona Cardinals, joining his first NFC franchise. He spent the 2020 season in Arizona, providing depth along the defensive line before moving on to his next opportunity.
On March 20, 2021, Blackson signed a two-year contract with the Chicago Bears, joining a defensive front in need of experienced depth. He spent the 2021 and 2022 seasons with the Bears, contributing as a rotational defensive lineman and special teams player.
Baltimore Ravens and Jacksonville Jaguars Era (2023)
On May 24, 2023, Blackson signed with the Baltimore Ravens, joining one of the AFC’s most consistent defensive units. His time in Baltimore, however, was limited, as he was released on August 29, 2023, before the regular season.
Blackson quickly landed with another AFC franchise when the Jacksonville Jaguars signed him on August 31, 2023. He closed out the 2023 season with Jacksonville, continuing to provide veteran depth along the defensive line.
Denver Broncos and Return to Arizona (2024)
On April 15, 2024, Blackson signed a one-year deal with the Denver Broncos, looking to add experience to their defensive front. However, his time in Denver was brief, as he was released on August 26, 2024.
On September 10, 2024, Blackson returned to the Arizona Cardinals, signing with the team’s practice squad and beginning a second stint with the franchise. The move reflected his continued willingness to contribute in any capacity and kept him active in the league.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of the defining highlights of Angelo Blackson’s NFL career came in Week 15 of the 2019 season, when he blocked a field goal against the Tennessee Titans in a 24-21 win for the Houston Texans. The play earned him AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors and remains a signature moment of his professional resume. His three-year, $12 million extension with Houston in 2019 also stands as a major milestone, marking the largest financial commitment of his career.
Angelo Blackson Personal Life
Personal Life
Angelo Sierre Blackson, standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing approximately 144 kilograms, has built his professional football career on physical presence and versatility along the defensive line. Born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, he continues to be recognized as an American professional athlete whose career has spanned nearly a decade across multiple NFL franchises. Public details about his family and personal relationships remain limited.
2025 Season Outlook
Heading into the 2025 season, Angelo Blackson remained with the Arizona Cardinals after signing to the team’s practice squad in September 2024. His continued presence on the roster provided veteran depth and experience along the defensive line. Whether he secures an active roster spot or remains a practice squad option, Blackson’s longevity and professionalism continue to make him a valuable asset for an NFC franchise in need of experienced depth.
Throughout his NFL journey, Blackson has demonstrated resilience, transitioning between multiple teams while maintaining a consistent role as a run-defending defensive end and special teams contributor. As the 2025 season approaches, his familiarity with the Cardinals organization and the defensive scheme could play a key role in determining his level of involvement.