Josh Uche

Joshua Uche is an active American professional football player who plays as a Linebacker and edge rusher in the National Football League (NFL). Best known for his highly productive pass-rushing tenure with the New England Patriots, he currently plays for his hometown Miami Dolphins following stints with the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles.

Player Profile, High School, and College Career

Joshua Uche was born on September 18, 1998, in Miami, Florida, United States. The Linebacker stands 185 cm tall, and his weight was last listed at 111 kg.

He attended Christopher Columbus High School in his hometown of Miami. Following graduation, he played college football for the University of Michigan from 2016 to 2019. Despite battling injuries early in his collegiate career, he developed into a prolific pass rusher for the Wolverines. During his 2019 senior season, he recorded a team-high 8.5 sacks and was named to the Second-team All-Big Ten by the coaches.

Personal Life

Uche was born to Nigerian immigrant parents. His name "Uche" originates from the Igbo people and translates to meanings such as "intention," "will," or "mind." Signing with the Miami Dolphins in 2026 marked a true homecoming for Uche, whose high school alma mater is located just a short drive from the Dolphins' home stadium.

Professional Career

He was drafted by the New England Patriots during the 2020 NFL Draft. They selected him in the second round, making him the 60th overall pick.

During his professional career, Uche primarily served as a highly efficient, situational pass-rushing specialist. After dealing with multiple trips to injured reserve over his first two seasons, he put together a massive breakout year in 2022. That season, he racked up a career-high 11.5 sacks and earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for a dominant three-sack performance against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 14.

Midway through the 2024 season, the Patriots traded Uche to the Kansas City Chiefs. Following the 2024 campaign, he signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he provided valuable rotational depth and pressure off the edge during the 2025 season.

In March 2026, he secured a homecoming by signing a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins.

Career Highlights:

• 2022 – AFC Defensive Player of the Week (Week 14)
• 2019 – Second-team All-Big Ten