Even though his name isn’t immediately associated with NFL greatness, Joshua Dobbs is a testimony to leadership, tenacity, and flexibility. Over the course of his career, Dobbs has managed to carve out a meaningful role in the professional football landscape, even as a backup quarterback. While his journey hasn’t followed the typical path of an NFL star, his story is one of resilience, grit, and determination.
From his early days as a high school quarterback in Alpharetta, Georgia, to his time at the University of Tennessee and eventual entry into the NFL, Dobbs’ career has been filled with moments of growth and opportunity. This article explores his journey, the challenges he’s faced, and the lasting impact he’s had both on and off the field.
Early Life and High School Football
Born on January 26, 1995, in Alpharetta, Georgia, Joshua Dobbs was raised in an academic family—his father, Robert, is a doctor, and his mother, Stephanie, is a teacher. With such strong educational values in his upbringing, it wasn’t surprising that Dobbs was encouraged to pursue excellence both in academics and athletics.
Dobbs showed early promise as an athlete, excelling in both football and basketball. However, it was on the football field where he truly shined. At Alpharetta High School, Dobbs became the starting quarterback, and it didn’t take long for him to make a name for himself in the competitive Georgia high school football scene.
In his senior year, Dobbs threw for 2,600 yards and 26 touchdowns, impressing college scouts across the country. His ability to lead his team to victory while also showcasing his dual-threat abilities—both as a passer and a runner—helped him stand out in a competitive class of quarterbacks. It was this combination of physical talent, leadership, and football IQ that eventually led him to the University of Tennessee.
The University of Tennessee: Rising Through the Ranks
Dobbs enrolled at the University of Tennessee in 2013, where he would begin to shape his career into something special. Initially, he did not start as the team’s quarterback, with Nathan Peterman securing the position. However, as Tennessee’s struggles at the quarterback position mounted, Dobbs’ opportunity came.
Freshman Year: Stepping into the Spotlight
Dobbs’ freshman year was marked by a steep learning curve. He was called upon to start after Peterman struggled, and his first significant game came against Alabama—a tough opponent. Despite the Vols’ loss to the Crimson Tide, Dobbs showed flashes of his potential, throwing for 192 yards and a touchdown. The experience, though difficult, allowed Dobbs to adjust to the speed and intensity of college football.
Though Tennessee’s season was disappointing, Dobbs’ performances became more consistent, and by the end of the year, he had solidified himself as the team’s starting quarterback. While his passing was still developing, Dobbs’ ability to run the football effectively set him apart from many of his peers. This dual-threat ability would be a hallmark of his game throughout his career.
Sophomore and Junior Years: Gaining Momentum
As a sophomore, Dobbs continued to improve, both as a passer and a leader. He threw for over 2,200 yards and 15 touchdowns, while also rushing for 469 yards and 8 touchdowns. His ability to make plays with his legs, especially in key situations, became a significant part of Tennessee’s offensive scheme. Dobbs helped lead the Volunteers to a bowl game in 2014, and his stock continued to rise.
In his junior year, Dobbs truly began to shine on the national stage. He threw for 2,946 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only 12 interceptions. His ability to avoid turnovers while making plays with his legs helped elevate Tennessee’s offense. In addition to his impressive passing stats, Dobbs rushed for 563 yards and 8 touchdowns, showcasing his dynamic skill set. His success helped propel Tennessee to the SEC Championship Game, and his performance in 2015 solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.
Senior Year: A Strong Finish with Ups and Downs
In his senior year, Dobbs’ performance remained strong despite Tennessee’s mixed results as a team. He threw for 2,946 yards and 26 touchdowns, while rushing for 563 yards and 8 touchdowns. While Tennessee finished with a 9-4 record, Dobbs’ leadership was undeniable. He continued to show resilience, maintaining his focus and determination even in the face of adversity. By the time his college career ended, Dobbs had set multiple school records and left a lasting legacy at Tennessee.
NFL Draft: Entering the Professional Ranks
After a successful college career, Dobbs declared for the 2017 NFL Draft. He was regarded as an intriguing prospect—especially for teams looking for a quarterback who could bring dual-threat abilities to their offense. Despite his impressive college numbers, Dobbs was seen as a developmental quarterback, with questions about his consistency as a passer and his ability to translate his college success to the NFL level.
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Dobbs in the fourth round of the 2017 draft with the 135th overall pick. The Steelers, a team led by veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, were looking for a young quarterback who could learn under Roethlisberger and potentially step in as a future starter. Dobbs’ selection marked the beginning of his NFL journey.
Professional Career: From Pittsburgh to Other Teams
Rookie Year: Learning Behind Roethlisberger
Dobbs was Roethlisberger’s backup during his debut season. His role was primarily to learn from the veteran quarterback and gain a deeper understanding of the NFL game. Although Dobbs did not see significant action during the 2017 season, he impressed coaches with his work ethic and football IQ.
During the preseason, Dobbs saw some action and showcased his athleticism and arm strength. In a game against the Detroit Lions, Dobbs threw for 152 yards and a touchdown, leaving a lasting impression despite limited opportunities in the regular season.
Trade to the Jacksonville Jaguars
In 2018, Dobbs was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he was brought in to back up Blake Bortles. The Jaguars, at the time, were in search of a reliable backup who could potentially step into the starting role if needed. Dobbs spent a year in Jacksonville, but he saw limited playing time and was eventually released.
Stint with the Cleveland Browns
In 2020, Dobbs signed with the Cleveland Browns as a backup quarterback. Though he spent most of his time on the sidelines, Dobbs served as a mentor and backup to Baker Mayfield. He remained a steady presence in the locker room, continuing to prove his value as a leader and supportive teammate.
Return to Pittsburgh and Later Teams
Dobbs returned to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021, reuniting with the team that originally drafted him. With the Steelers undergoing a transition at quarterback following Roethlisberger’s retirement, Dobbs’ leadership was valuable to the young quarterbacks on the roster. His experience in the NFL, combined with his leadership skills, made him an important part of the team’s locker room culture.
Later, Dobbs had brief stints with the Tennessee Titans and Arizona Cardinals, further demonstrating his ability to contribute as a backup quarterback with a wealth of knowledge and experience. While his role has often been in the background, Dobbs has continued to showcase his resilience and commitment to his craft.
Joshua Dobbs’ Leadership and Legacy
One of the most enduring aspects of Joshua Dobbs’ career is his leadership. From his college days at Tennessee to his time in the NFL, Dobbs has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches. Despite not being a star quarterback, he has consistently served as a mentor to younger quarterbacks, providing guidance both on and off the field.
Dobbs’ legacy is one of perseverance. He has faced the challenges of being a backup quarterback for most of his career but has never let that define him. His ability to stay ready for any opportunity, along with his strong leadership, has made him a valuable asset to every team he has been a part of.
FAQs
Where did Joshua Dobbs play college football?
Joshua Dobbs played college football at the University of Tennessee, where he became a standout quarterback for the Volunteers. He played from 2013 to 2016 and left a significant mark on the program.
What is Joshua Dobbs’ playing style?
Joshua Dobbs is known as a dual-threat quarterback, meaning he excels both as a passer and as a runner. His ability to extend plays with his legs is one of his most defining traits, though he has also developed into a more accurate passer over time.
Which NFL teams has Joshua Dobbs played for?
Joshua Dobbs has played for several NFL teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, and Arizona Cardinals. His career has been defined more by his role as a backup quarterback than as a starter.
Has Joshua Dobbs ever started in the NFL?
While Joshua Dobbs has not had a long tenure as a starting quarterback in the NFL, he has had some brief opportunities to play in regular-season games and preseason. He has primarily served as a backup but has remained prepared for any opportunity.
What is Joshua Dobbs’ legacy in the NFL?
Joshua Dobbs’ legacy is one of resilience, leadership, and adaptability. While he may not have been a household name or a starting quarterback for long stretches, his work ethic and leadership have made him a respected figure in the NFL, and his story continues to inspire players in similar situations.
Summary
Joshua Dobbs’ journey through football is a reflection of perseverance and determination. From a talented high school quarterback in Georgia to a dual-threat star at the University of Tennessee, and later, an NFL journeyman, Dobbs has proven that success is not always measured by starting roles or fame. His leadership, work ethic, and ability to step up when needed have earned him respect across the league.
As his career continues, Joshua Dobbs’ story will remain one of resilience, proving that even when the path is not always clear, dedication and adaptability can lead to meaningful opportunities.
To read more, Click here
Leave a Reply