Isaiah Foskey Bio
Isaiah Ulysses Foskey is an American professional football defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League (NFL). Born and raised in Northern California, Foskey emerged as one of the most productive pass rushers in Notre Dame history before being selected by the New Orleans Saints in the second round of the 2023 NFL draft. After two seasons in New Orleans, he joined the Cincinnati Bengals late in the 2025 campaign and continues his professional career as a defensive end.
Early Life and Background
Isaiah Foskey was born on October 30, 2000, in Antioch, California. He grew up in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area and developed an early passion for football, the sport that would eventually define his professional path. Standing 6 feet 5 inches tall, Foskey used his size and athleticism from a young age to stand out on the gridiron.
Foskey attended De La Salle High School in Concord, California, one of the most storied football programs in the United States. At De La Salle, he lined up at both defensive end and tight end, showcasing the versatility and physical tools that would later catch the attention of major college recruiters. His senior season performances earned him an invitation to the 2019 All-American Bowl, a prestigious high school all-star game that highlighted the nation’s top prospects.
Path to American Football
Following his appearance in the All-American Bowl, Foskey committed to the University of Notre Dame, choosing the Fighting Irish over several other scholarship offers. The decision to attend Notre Dame allowed him to compete at the highest level of college football while developing under one of the sport’s most respected defensive coaching staffs. His time at De La Salle, where championships and discipline are program standards, helped prepare him for the rigors of major college competition.
At Notre Dame, Foskey initially served in a rotational role as a freshman, appearing in four games during the 2019 season and recording five tackles along with a blocked punt. As a sophomore in 2020, his role expanded significantly, and he produced 20 tackles and 4.5 sacks, signaling his emergence as a reliable edge rusher. By his junior season in 2021, Foskey had earned a starting position and continued his development into one of the premier defensive ends in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Isaiah Foskey Career
Early Career (2019–2021)
Foskey’s first three seasons at Notre Dame reflected steady growth. His freshman year served as an introduction to the speed and complexity of the college game, while his sophomore campaign established him as an effective pass rusher. The 2021 season was a defining one, as he started consistently and became a focal point of the Fighting Irish defense.
By the conclusion of the 2022 season, Foskey had cemented his status as a consensus All-American, an honor reserved for the nation’s elite college players. His combination of size, length, and pass-rushing instincts made him a top prospect heading into the 2023 NFL draft.
Notre Dame Breakthrough (2022)
Foskey’s senior season at Notre Dame represented the peak of his collegiate career. Playing as a full-time starter, he delivered consistent production against some of the nation’s most demanding offensive lines. His performances throughout the year reinforced his reputation as a player capable of disrupting both the run and the pass.
The 2022 campaign ended with Foskey earning consensus All-American recognition, a rare distinction for a Notre Dame defensive end. His play during this period established him as one of the most accomplished edge rushers in program history and positioned him as an early second-round selection in the upcoming draft.
New Orleans Saints Era (2023–2024)
Foskey was selected by the New Orleans Saints with the 40th overall pick in the second round of the 2023 NFL draft. As a rookie, he appeared in ten games during the 2023 season, gaining valuable experience while adjusting to the speed of the professional game. His first two seasons in New Orleans allowed him to develop his craft against NFL-caliber offensive tackles.
On August 26, 2025, Foskey was waived by the Saints as part of the team’s final roster cuts, ending his tenure with the franchise after two seasons.
Cincinnati Bengals Era (2025–Present)
On September 9, 2025, Foskey was signed to the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad, providing him an opportunity to continue his development within a new defensive system. He was promoted to the active roster on November 21, marking his return to a full-time NFL role. His move to Cincinnati offered a fresh start and a chance to contribute to a Bengals defense seeking additional depth along the defensive line.
Driving Style and Strengths
Foskey combines imposing size with the burst and flexibility expected of a modern edge rusher. His long frame allows him to disengage from blockers, while his hand technique and motor have developed through both college and early professional experience. As he integrates further into Cincinnati’s defensive scheme, his primary strengths remain pressuring quarterbacks and setting the edge against the run.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key milestones in Foskey’s career include his selection in the 2023 NFL draft, his consensus All-American honor in 2022, and his signing with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2025. Each step reflects his progression from a highly recruited high school prospect to an established NFL defensive end.
Isaiah Foskey Career Wins
As a defensive end, Isaiah Foskey’s statistical achievements are measured in tackles, sacks, and disruptive plays rather than race victories. His career highlights include 4.5 sacks during his sophomore season at Notre Dame, consensus All-American honors in 2022, and his selection as a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft.
Notre Dame Highlights
During his time with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Foskey appeared in multiple seasons and steadily increased his production, culminating in a senior season that earned him consensus All-American status. His blocked punt as a freshman added to his reputation as a disruptive presence on every down.
Other Wins & Performances
Foskey participated in the 2019 All-American Bowl, a marquee high school all-star event, and recorded ten games of NFL experience during his rookie season with the New Orleans Saints in 2023. These appearances represent key verified performances in his football journey.
Isaiah Foskey Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Public information regarding Isaiah Foskey’s family background is limited beyond his upbringing in Antioch, California. He attended De La Salle High School, an institution widely recognized for its elite football tradition.
Personal Life
Foskey was born in Antioch, California, and later moved to the Cincinnati area as a member of the Bengals. Additional verified details about his personal life, including marital status, are not publicly confirmed in available sources.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season began with Foskey’s release from the New Orleans Saints on August 26 as part of final roster cuts. Just two weeks later, on September 9, he joined the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad, keeping his career active and positioning him for a potential return to game action.
That opportunity arrived on November 21, when Foskey was signed to the Bengals’ active roster. His promotion reflects the team’s continued interest in his pass-rushing potential and provides him with a platform to contribute during the back half of the 2025 campaign. With multiple games remaining on the schedule, Foskey will look to carve out a meaningful role within Cincinnati’s defensive rotation.
Heading into the remainder of 2025 and beyond, Foskey’s focus will be on solidifying a spot on the Bengals’ active roster and continuing his development as a professional defensive end. His combination of size, experience, and draft pedigree gives him a foundation to build upon as he seeks a long-term role in the NFL.