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Jon Bostic
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Jonathan Earl Bostic II (born May 5, 1991) is an American former professional football player who was a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Florida Gators and was selected by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2013 NFL draft. Bostic was also a member of the New England Patriots, Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, Washington Commanders, and New Orleans Saints.
Key Information
Early life
[edit]Bostic was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to John Bostic and Jacqueline Bostic. His father was a defensive back for the Detroit Lions from 1985 to 1987. After his father retired from the NFL, he gained his Doctor of Pharmacy degree and eventually relocated his family to Wellington, Florida. Bostic attended Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington, where he played for the Palm Beach Central Broncos high school football team.
College career
[edit]Bostic accepted an athletic scholarship to attend the University of Florida, where he played for coach Urban Meyer and coach Will Muschamp's Florida Gators football teams from 2009 to 2012. During his college career, he started 32 of 51 games in which he played, recording 237 tackles, 7.5 quarterback sacks and five interceptions. Following his senior season in 2012, he was a second-team All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) selection. Bostic graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health, Education and Behavior.
Professional career
[edit]| External videos | |
|---|---|
| Height | Weight | Arm length | Hand span | 40-yard dash | 10-yard split | 20-yard split | 20-yard shuttle | Three-cone drill | Vertical jump | Broad jump | Bench press | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 ft 0+7⁄8 in (1.85 m) |
245 lb (111 kg) |
33 in (0.84 m) |
9+5⁄8 in (0.24 m) |
4.61 s | 1.59 s | 2.67 s | 4.24 s | 6.99 s | 32.5 in (0.83 m) |
9 ft 10 in (3.00 m) |
22 reps | |
| All values from NFL Scouting Combine[1][2] | ||||||||||||
Chicago Bears
[edit]2013
[edit]The Chicago Bears selected Bostic in the second round with the 50th overall pick in the 2013 NFL draft.[3] Bostic was the seventh linebacker drafted in 2013.[4]
| External videos | |
|---|---|
On May 9, 2013, the Chicago Bears signed Bostic to a four-year, $3.94 million contract that includes a signing bonus of $1.24 million.[5][6]
Throughout training camp, Bostic competed to be the starting middle linebacker against veteran D. J. Williams.[7] Head coach Marc Trestman named Bostic the backup middle linebacker to begin the regular season, behind D. J. Williams.[8]
He made his professional regular season debut in the Chicago Bears' season-opening 24–21 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. The following week, Bostic recorded his first career regular season tackle on Cordarrelle Patterson during a 22-yard kick return in the second quarter of a 31–30 win against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2.[9] On October 11, 2013, it was reported that starting middle linebacker D. J. Williams was expected to miss the remainder of the season after tearing his pectoral muscle during the Bears' 26–21 victory against the New York Giants the previous day. Head coach Marc Trestman named Bostic the starter for the remainder of the season.[10] On October 20, 2013, Bostic earned his first career start and recorded eight combined tackles in the Bears' 45–41 loss to the Washington Redskins in Week 7. In Week 11, he recorded five solo tackles, a pass deflection, and made his first career interception during a 23–20 overtime win against the Baltimore Ravens.[11] He intercepted a pass by quarterback Joe Flacco that was intended for Dallas Clark in the second quarter.[12] In Week 13, Bostic recorded a season-high ten combined tackles (six solo) and two sacks during a 23–20 overtime loss at the Minnesota Vikings. He made his first career sack on quarterback Matt Cassel for a three-yard loss in overtime.[13] He finished his rookie season with a total of 57 combined tackles (45 solo), two sacks, a pass deflection, and an interception in 16 games and nine starts.[14]
2014
[edit]
During training camp, Bostic and D. J. Williams competed against each other for the job as the starting middle linebacker.[15] Defensive coordinator Mel Tucker named Bostic the backup middle linebacker to begin the regular season, behind D. J. Williams.[16]
On September 22, 2014, Bostic earned his first start of the season in place of outside linebacker Shea McClellin. He recorded a season-high 13 combined tackles (six solo) during a 27–19 win at the New York Jets in Week 3. He started in place of McClellin in the next two games (Weeks 4–5).[17] Bostic sustained a back injury and missed three consecutive games (Weeks 6–8).[18] On November 27, 2014, Bostic started at middle linebacker in place of D. J. Williams who sustained a neck injury the previous week. He made 11 combined tackles (seven solo) in the Bears' 34–17 loss at the Detroit Lions in Week 13. He remained the starting middle linebacker for the last five games of the regular season after D. J. Williams was placed on injured reserve.[19] Bostic finished the 2014 season with 84 combined tackles (58 solo) and three pass deflections in 13 games and eight starts.[14] On December 29, 2014, the Chicago Bears fired head coach Mark Trestman and general manager Phil Emery after they finished with a 5–11 record.[20]
2015
[edit]Bostic missed organized team activities due to a back injury, but recovered in time to attend training camp. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio held a competition between Bostic, Christian Jones, and Mason Foster for a job as a starting inside linebacker.[21] Head coach John Fox named Bostic the backup inside linebacker to start the regular season, behind Christian Jones, Shea McClellin, and Mason Foster.[22] Bostic was a healthy scratch for the first three regular season games.
New England Patriots
[edit]On September 28, 2015, the Chicago Bears traded Bostic to the New England Patriots in exchange for a sixth-round pick (204th overall) in the 2016 NFL draft.[23] Upon arriving to the New England Patriots, head coach Bill Belichick named Bostic the backup strongside linebacker behind Jamie Collins.[24] On December 7, 2015, Bostic earned his first start as a member of the Patriots in place of Dont'a Hightower after Hightower sustained a shoulder injury. He recorded one tackle during a 27–6 victory at the Houston Texans in Week 14.[25] He finished the 2015 season with two combined tackles (one solo) in 11 games and one start.[14]
Detroit Lions
[edit]On May 9, 2016, the New England Patriots traded Bostic to the Detroit Lions in exchange for a conditional seventh-round draft pick.[26] Throughout training camp, he competed against Stephen Tulloch for the job as the starting middle linebacker. On August 2, 2016, Bostic sustained a leg injury during a joint practice with the Pittsburgh Steelers.[27] On September 6, 2016, the Detroit Lions placed Bostic on injured reserve with a foot injury.[28] The Detroit Lions opted to keep him on injured reserve for the entire 2016 season.
Indianapolis Colts
[edit]On April 20, 2017, the Indianapolis Colts signed Bostic to a one-year, $690,000 contract.[29][30] Throughout training camp, he competed for a job as a starting inside linebacker against Edwin Jackson and Sean Spence.[31] Head coach Chuck Pagano named Bostic the starting inside linebacker to begin the 2017 regular season, along with rookie Antonio Morrison.[32]
On October 1, 2017, Bostic recorded a season-high 12 combined tackles (five solo) during a 46–18 loss at the Seattle Seahawks in Week 4. In Week 8, he collected eight combined tackles and sacked quarterback Andy Dalton during the Colts' 24–23 loss at the Cincinnati Bengals. On December 18, 2017, the Indianapolis Colts placed Bostic on injured reserve after he suffered a knee injury in Week 15.[33] He finished the 2017 season with a career-high 97 tackles (57 solo), three pass deflections, and a sack in 14 games and 14 starts.[14] His 97 tackles finished third on the team and 25th among all players in the league.[34] Pro Football Focus gave Bostic an overall grade of 74.9, ranking 38th among all qualified linebackers in 2017.[35]
Pittsburgh Steelers
[edit]On March 18, 2018, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed Bostic to a two-year, $4 million contract that includes a signing bonus of $2.4 million.[36][30] He was released from the team on April 27, 2019 following the 2019 NFL draft, in which the Steelers used the 10th overall pick on linebacker Devin Bush Jr.[37]
Washington Redskins / Football Team
[edit]
Bostic signed with the Washington Redskins on May 22, 2019, after linebacker Reuben Foster was placed on injured reserve with a torn ACL.[38] He started all 16 games, recording a career-high 105 tackles, one sack, and an interception.[39] On March 30, 2020, Bostic signed a two-year, $5 million contract extension with the Redskins.[40][41]
In Week 7 of the 2020 season against the Dallas Cowboys, Bostic was ejected after initiating a helmet to helmet hit on Cowboys' quarterback Andy Dalton, giving him a concussion.[42] He was later fined $12,000.[43] In Week 13 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bostic led the team with 10 tackles and intercepted a pass thrown by former Steelers teammate Ben Roethlisberger during the 23–17 win.[44]
Bostic tore a pectoral muscle in a Week 4 game against the Atlanta Falcons and was placed on injured reserve on October 5, 2021.[45][46]
New Orleans Saints
[edit]Bostic signed with the New Orleans Saints on August 15, 2022.[47] He was released on August 30, 2022.[48]
Washington Commanders
[edit]Bostic signed a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders on September 1, 2022.[49] He was placed on injured reserve on December 30, 2022.[50]
NFL career statistics
[edit]| Legend | |
|---|---|
| Bold | Career high |
Regular season
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Tackles | Interceptions | Fumbles | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Cmb | Solo | Ast | Sck | TFL | Int | Yds | TD | Lng | PD | FF | FR | Yds | TD | ||
| 2013 | CHI | 16 | 9 | 58 | 46 | 12 | 2.0 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2014 | CHI | 13 | 8 | 84 | 58 | 26 | 0.0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2015 | NWE | 11 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | IND | 14 | 14 | 97 | 57 | 40 | 1.0 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2018 | PIT | 16 | 14 | 73 | 46 | 27 | 2.5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2019 | WAS | 16 | 16 | 105 | 56 | 49 | 1.0 | 3 | 1 | 26 | 0 | 26 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2020 | WAS | 16 | 15 | 118 | 61 | 57 | 3.0 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2021 | WAS | 4 | 4 | 22 | 12 | 10 | 0.0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | WAS | 15 | 5 | 25 | 11 | 14 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 121 | 86 | 584 | 348 | 236 | 9.5 | 30 | 3 | 26 | 0 | 26 | 15 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | ||
Playoffs
[edit]| Year | Team | Games | Tackles | Interceptions | Fumbles | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Cmb | Solo | Ast | Sck | TFL | Int | Yds | TD | Lng | PD | FF | FR | Yds | TD | ||
| 2020 | WAS | 1 | 1 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 1 | 1 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | ||
References
[edit]- ^ "Jon Bostic Draft and Combine Prospect Profile". National Football League. Retrieved April 26, 2013.
- ^ "2013 NFL Draft Scout Jon Bostic College Football Profile". DraftScout.com. Retrieved February 2, 2024.
- ^ "2013 NFL Draft Listing". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved May 14, 2023.
- ^ Mayer, Larry (April 26, 2013). "Bears select Florida linebacker Jon Bostic". Chicago Bears. Retrieved April 26, 2013.
- ^ "Bears sign LB Bostic". Yahoo! Sports. May 9, 2013. Retrieved May 9, 2013.
- ^ Briggs, Brad (May 10, 2013). "Dollars and sense: Contract details for Bears rookie". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Mitchell, Fred (August 9, 2013). "Bostic makes most of opportunity with pick-6". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "Ourlads.com: Chicago Bears Depth Chart: 09/05/2013". Ourlads.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "NFL Game Center: Week 2-2013: Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2013.
- ^ Thomas, Todd (October 11, 2013). "D.J. Williams injury: Bears LB lost for season with torn pectoral muscle, per report". sbnation.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "NFL Player stats: Week 11-2013: Baltimore Ravens @ Chicago Bears". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "Postgame notes: Bears vs. Ravens week 11". Chicago Bears. November 17, 2013. Retrieved November 17, 2013.
- ^ "NFL Game Center: Week 13-2013: Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ a b c d "NFL Player stats: Jon Bostic (career)". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Wesseling, Chris (June 11, 2014). "Report: Bostic pushing D.J. Williams for starting job". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Stoltz, Jeremy (August 30, 2014). "Bears Official 2014 Depth Chart". 247sports.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.[dead link]
- ^ Loop, Nate (September 20, 2014). "Shea McClellin Injury: Updates on Bears LB's Hand and Return". bleacherreport.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Wiltfong, Lester (October 24, 2014). "Chicago Bears Injury Report: Lance Briggs and Jon Bostic are doubtful". windycitygridiron.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "D.J. Williams is the sixth opening-day starter for the Bears to go on injured reserve". chicagotribune.com. December 11, 2014. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Dickerson, Jeff (December 29, 2014). "Bears fire Phil Emery, Marc Trestman". ESPN.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Biggs, Brad (June 18, 2015). "Bears' Christian Jones out to make 'undrafted' label obsolete". chicagotribune.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "Ourlads.com: Chicago Bears Depth Chart: 09/01/2015". Ourlads.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Yates, Field; Dickerson, Jeff (September 28, 2015). "Bears ship linebacker Bostic to Patriots for pick". ESPN.com. Retrieved May 10, 2016.
- ^ "Ourlads.com: New England Patriots Depth Chart: 11/01/2015". Ourlads.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "NFL Player stats: Jon Bostic (2015)". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "Lions acquire LB Jon Bostic via trade with Patriots". Detroit Lions. May 9, 2016. Retrieved May 9, 2016.
- ^ "Linebacker situation should have Lions thinking Stephen Tulloch". 247Sports.com. August 15, 2016. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ "Lions awarded TE Khari Lee via waivers, place LB Jon Bostic on Reserve/Injured". DetroitLions.com. September 6, 2016. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ Bowen, Kevin (April 20, 2017). "Colts Sign Veteran Inside Linebacker Jon Bostic". Colts.com. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ a b "Spotrac.com: Jon Bostic contract". spotrac.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Bowen, Kevin (August 4, 2017). "Jon Bostic, Antonio Morrison Seeing Ample Starting Action Together at Linebacker". Colts.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "Ourlads.com: Indianapolis Colts Depth Chart: 10/01/2017". Ourlads.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ Walker, Andrew (December 18, 2017). "Colts Place Ryan Kelly, Jon Bostic on Injured Reserve". Colts.com. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ "National Football League: Tackles (2017)". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "Pro Football Focus: Jon Bostic". NFL.com. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
- ^ "Steelers agree to terms with Bostic". Steelers.com. March 18, 2018. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ "Steelers terminate Bostic's contract". Steelers.com. April 27, 2019. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ Teope, Herbie (May 22, 2019). "Redskins sign Jon Bostic, place Reuben Foster on IR". NFL.com. Retrieved May 22, 2019.
- ^ "Jon Bostic Is Ready For A Big Year In Washington's New Defense". www.washingtonfootball.com. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ Williams, Charean (March 16, 2020). "Report: Washington signing Jon Bostic to two-year deal". Pro Football Talk. NBC Sports. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ "Redskins Re-Sign LB Jon Bostic". Redskins.com. March 22, 2020. Retrieved September 25, 2020.
- ^ Maya, Adam (October 25, 2020). "Mike McCarthy laments Cowboys' response to hit on Andy Dalton". NFL.com. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
- ^ "Jon Bostic fined only $12,000 for hit that knocked out Andy Dalton". NBC Sports. October 31, 2020. Retrieved December 29, 2024.
- ^ "Washington Football Team at Pittsburgh Steelers - December 7th, 2020". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved December 8, 2020.
- ^ "Jon Bostic likely out for season with pectoral injury, Torry McTyer tore his ACL". NBC Sports. October 4, 2021. Retrieved October 4, 2021.
- ^ Washington Football Team Public Relations (October 5, 2021). "Washington Makes Multiple Roster Moves". WashingtonFootball.com. Archived from the original on October 5, 2021. Retrieved October 5, 2021.
- ^ "New Orleans Saints announce roster moves". NewOrleansSaints.com. August 15, 2022. Retrieved August 15, 2022.
- ^ "New Orleans Saints make roster reductions to 53". NewOrleansSaints.com. August 30, 2022.
- ^ "Commanders place RB Brian Robinson on NFI, sign LB Jon Bostic". www.commanders.com. Archived from the original on September 1, 2022. Retrieved September 1, 2022.
- ^ Washington Commanders Public Relations (December 30, 2022). "Commanders place Jon Bostic on IR, sign De'Jon Harris to active roster". Commanders.com. Archived from the original on December 30, 2022. Retrieved December 30, 2022.
External links
[edit]- Florida Gators bio
Media related to Jon Bostic at Wikimedia Commons
Jon Bostic
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Upbringing
Jonathan Earl Bostic II was born on May 5, 1991, in Wellington, Florida, to John Bostic Sr., a former NFL defensive back who played three seasons for the Detroit Lions from 1985 to 1987, and Jacqueline Bostic, an educator who emphasized the importance of academics alongside athletics in their household.[6][7][8] Growing up in the sports-oriented community of Wellington, Bostic was immersed in a competitive environment from a young age, with his father's professional football career serving as a primary influence on his passion for the game; he idolized his dad and aspired to follow in his footsteps.[7][2] Bostic's family further reinforced this drive through their own involvement in athletics—his younger brother Justin, who was playing linebacker by age 9, and sister Jayla shared in the household's love for sports, creating a supportive dynamic that nurtured his early development.[7][9]High school career
Jon Bostic attended Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington, Florida, where he played football for the Broncos from 2005 to 2009.[10] During his high school career, Bostic primarily played as a linebacker on defense and a running back on offense, transitioning to linebacker in his senior year after earlier positions in the secondary.[11] As a senior in 2008, he rushed for 458 yards on 75 carries and scored six touchdowns, contributing significantly to the team's offensive efforts.[3] His defensive performance that year earned him selection to the Class 6A All-State first team as a linebacker, recognizing him among Florida's top high school players. He was also ranked as the fourth-best linebacker prospect nationally and included in the ESPNU Top 150.[12][2] Bostic's standout senior season also led to his participation in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, a prestigious national showcase for elite recruits.[13] These achievements drew scholarship offers from major college programs, including Florida, LSU, Florida State, and Clemson, culminating in his commitment to the University of Florida.[2]College career
University of Florida
Bostic enrolled at the University of Florida in January 2009 and joined the Florida Gators football team as a true freshman under head coach Urban Meyer.[14] During the 2009 season, he appeared in all 14 games, primarily contributing on special teams and in backup linebacker duties, where he recorded 18 tackles and led all freshmen on the roster.[3] The Gators, ranked No. 1 nationally for much of the year, captured the SEC Championship before defeating Cincinnati 51-24 in the Sugar Bowl to cap a 13-1 campaign, with Bostic gaining valuable experience in high-stakes SEC rivalries such as the 37-10 win over Florida State[15] and the 41-17 victory against Georgia.[16] As a sophomore in 2010, still under Meyer, Bostic transitioned into a more prominent role, starting six of 13 games at inside linebacker while appearing in all contests.[17] He amassed 57 tackles, including 1.5 sacks, and intercepted three passes—the team high and most among SEC linebackers—highlighting his ball skills in key matchups like the 48-14 win over Kentucky, where he had an interception,[18] and the 55-14 victory against Vanderbilt.[19] These contributions helped anchor a defense that supported the Gators' push toward bowl eligibility, culminating in an 8-5 record and a 37-24 Outback Bowl win over Penn State.[20] Following Meyer's resignation, Bostic became a full-time starter in 2011 under new head coach Will Muschamp, solidifying his position as the defensive signal-caller at middle linebacker for all 13 games.[17] He led the team with 94 tackles and added three sacks, playing pivotal roles in gritty defensive stands, such as his career-high 13 tackles in the 11-41 loss to No. 1 LSU[21] and 12 stops in the 17-12 loss to South Carolina.[22] The Gators navigated a rebuilding year to finish 7-6, with Bostic's consistency evident in SEC clashes like the 33-23 win at Tennessee.[23] In his senior season of 2012, Bostic continued starting all 13 games under Muschamp, registering 68 tackles, three sacks, and two interceptions while serving as a veteran leader for a resurgent defense.[17] Notable highlights included a 7-yard interception return for a touchdown against Jacksonville State in a 23-0 rout[24][25] and a crucial third-quarter pick in the 14-7 defensive masterclass over Missouri, helping preserve a low-scoring victory.[26] His efforts contributed to an 11-2 record, including wins in SEC rivalry games like the 44-11 triumph over South Carolina[27] and a 37-26 victory against Florida State,[28] before a 23-33 loss to Louisville in the Sugar Bowl.[29][30]Achievements and statistics
During his four-year tenure at the University of Florida from 2009 to 2012, Jon Bostic amassed 237 total tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and 5 interceptions, establishing himself as a consistent defensive contributor for the Gators.[3] These figures reflect his progression from a rotational player as a freshman to a three-year starter, with notable impact in run defense and coverage.[17] Bostic's performance varied by season, peaking in 2011 as a junior when he led the team in tackles. The following table summarizes his key defensive statistics:| Year | Games | Starts | Total Tackles | Tackles for Loss | Sacks | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 (FR) | 14 | 0 | 18 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 2010 (SO) | 13 | 6 | 57 | 2.5 | 1.5 | 3 |
| 2011 (JR) | 13 | 13 | 94 | 10.0 | 3.0 | 0 |
| 2012 (SR) | 13 | 13 | 68 | 6.5 | 3.0 | 2 |
Professional career
Chicago Bears
Bostic was selected by the Chicago Bears in the second round (50th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft.[36] His strong college performance at the University of Florida, where he recorded 237 tackles over four seasons, positioned him as a promising inside linebacker prospect.[1] On May 9, 2013, he signed a four-year rookie contract worth $3.94 million, including a signing bonus of $1.24 million.[37] As a rookie in 2013, Bostic appeared in all 16 games, starting nine, and recorded 58 tackles, two sacks, and one interception.[38] His interception came in Week 10 against the Baltimore Ravens, marking a key defensive contribution during a season where he adjusted to the NFL's speed while rotating with veteran linebackers.[38] Bostic also added a fumble recovery, demonstrating early versatility in pass coverage and run support.[1] In 2014, Bostic played in 13 games, starting eight, and tallied 84 tackles with four tackles for loss.[39] He showed personal growth in run defense, registering more tackles behind the line of scrimmage than in his rookie year, though the Bears' overall unit ranked near the bottom of the league in rushing yards allowed. Bostic led the team in tackles during several games, including a career-high 13 combined tackles against the New York Jets in Week 3.[40] During the 2015 season, Bostic was inactive for the first three games and recorded no statistics before being traded midseason.[41] His time with the Bears concluded after limited opportunities in training camp and preseason, where he competed for a rotational role.[42]New England Patriots
On September 28, 2015, the Chicago Bears traded linebacker Jon Bostic to the New England Patriots in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.[43] The move came after Bostic had missed the first three games of the 2015 season with an ankle injury while with the Bears, providing the Patriots with added depth at inside linebacker amid injuries to key players like Dont'a Hightower.[44] During his time with New England, Bostic appeared in 11 regular-season games, starting one, and recorded two defensive tackles (one solo and one assisted).[1] His role was limited due to the team's established depth chart featuring starters Jamie Collins and Hightower, as well as reserves like Jerod Mayo and Rob Ninkovich, resulting in Bostic primarily contributing on special teams and in situational defensive rotations.[45] He saw his most notable action in a Week 9 win over the Washington Redskins, where he made an assisted tackle, and earned his lone start in Week 14 against the Houston Texans—a 27–6 victory—registering a solo tackle while filling in for the injured Hightower.[46] Bostic remained on the active roster as the Patriots advanced through the playoffs, reaching the AFC Championship Game, though he did not record any statistics in postseason play.[47] Following the 2015 season, the Patriots traded Bostic to the Detroit Lions on May 9, 2016, for a conditional seventh-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.Detroit Lions
Bostic joined the Detroit Lions via trade from the New England Patriots on May 9, 2016, in exchange for a conditional seventh-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.[48][49] His prior experience with the Patriots, where he served as a rotational linebacker, positioned him as a potential depth addition to Detroit's linebacker corps.[50] During training camp, Bostic sustained a significant foot injury in a joint practice against the Pittsburgh Steelers on August 10, 2016, requiring him to be carted off the field.[51] He underwent surgery shortly thereafter and was placed on injured reserve on September 6, 2016, which sidelined him for the entire season.[52][53] As a result, Bostic recorded no statistics and did not appear in any games for the Lions.[54] The injury underscored the physical demands and risks inherent to the linebacker position in the NFL, preventing Bostic from contributing to Detroit's defensive efforts during a season in which the team finished 9-7 and made the playoffs.[55] Following the 2016 campaign, the Lions did not retain Bostic, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent in March 2017.[56]Indianapolis Colts
Bostic signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an unrestricted free agent on April 20, 2017, to a one-year contract worth $690,000, following a season-ending foot injury with the Detroit Lions in 2016 that limited his free agency options.[57][56][5] During the 2017 season, Bostic emerged as a key contributor to the Colts' defense, starting all 14 games he appeared in and recording career highs of 97 total tackles (57 solo) along with one sack.[58] His performance included a standout game against the Seattle Seahawks on October 1, where he tallied 13 tackles in an 18-46 loss, helping anchor the run defense amid multiple injuries to the linebacker corps.[58] Bostic's reliability in stopping the run was particularly vital, as he ranked among the team's leaders in tackles for loss and contributed to improving the Colts' defensive efficiency against rushing attacks.[59] On December 18, 2017, Bostic was placed on injured reserve due to a high ankle sprain, ending his season prematurely.[60] The Colts released him on March 14, 2018, as he entered free agency once more.[1]Pittsburgh Steelers
Bostic signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on March 18, 2018, to a two-year, $4 million contract that included a $1.4 million signing bonus.[37] The deal provided depth and starting potential at inside linebacker amid injuries to Vince Williams and others in the unit.[61] In the 2018 season, Bostic emerged as a consistent starter, appearing in all 16 games and starting 14, filling a critical role in the Steelers' defense.[1] He amassed 73 total tackles (46 solo), 2.5 sacks, and three passes defended, contributing notably to the pass rush with pressures on quarterbacks in key matchups.[1] His play was strongest against the run, where he earned high marks for stopping opposing backs at or behind the line of scrimmage, including standout efforts in games against divisional opponents like the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens.[62] Despite occasional coverage lapses, Bostic upgraded the inside linebacker position from the prior year, providing stability in a unit hampered by injuries.[63] The Steelers released Bostic on April 27, 2019, prior to the start of the 2019 season, as part of roster adjustments to integrate draft picks like Devin Bush and clear $1.8 million in cap space.[64][65]Washington franchise
Bostic signed with the Washington Redskins on May 22, 2019, shortly after his release from the Pittsburgh Steelers, providing immediate depth at linebacker following Reuben Foster's season-ending knee injury.[66] He started all 16 games that season, recording 105 combined tackles (a team-high tie), one sack, and one interception, establishing himself as a reliable middle linebacker for the franchise.[67] On March 16, 2020, Bostic agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $5.1 million with the Redskins, who temporarily rebranded as the Washington Football Team for the 2020 and 2021 seasons amid controversy over their former name.[37] In 2020, he appeared in all 16 games (15 starts), achieving career highs with 118 combined tackles and three sacks while adding another interception, contributing significantly to the team's NFC East division title and wild-card playoff berth.[67] His performance solidified his role as a defensive anchor during the transition period. Bostic's 2021 season was cut short by injury; he started the first four games, tallying 22 combined tackles, before suffering a season-ending pectoral tear in Week 4 against the Atlanta Falcons on October 3.[68] The team permanently rebranded as the Washington Commanders ahead of the 2022 season. On September 1, 2022, Bostic signed a one-year contract to return, playing in 15 games (five starts) and recording 25 combined tackles before another pectoral injury sidelined him in Week 16 against the San Francisco 49ers, leading to his placement on injured reserve on December 30.[69] As of 2025, Bostic has had no further association with the franchise following the expiration of his 2022 deal.[37] Throughout his tenure from 2019 to 2022—the longest of his career—Bostic appeared in 51 games for Washington (across its name changes), amassing 270 combined tackles, four sacks, and two interceptions while serving as a veteran presence in the locker room.[1]New Orleans Saints
On August 15, 2022, Jon Bostic signed with the New Orleans Saints to provide depth at linebacker following the placement of rookie D'Marco Jackson on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.[70][71] The one-year contract was aimed at bolstering the Saints' linebacker room during training camp, where Bostic participated in practices but did not secure a spot on the 53-man roster.[37][72] Bostic was released by the Saints on August 30, 2022, as part of final roster cuts, after limited time with the team and without appearing in any preseason or regular-season games.[73][74] He made no statistical contributions during his brief tenure.[75] Just two days later, on September 1, 2022, Bostic re-signed with the Washington Commanders, highlighting the Saints' short-term need for veteran depth.[37][76]Career statistics and accomplishments
Regular season
Jon Bostic's regular-season career spanned from 2013 to 2022 across multiple teams, during which he established himself as a reliable inside linebacker known for his tackling prowess. Over 121 games played with 86 starts, Bostic amassed 584 combined tackles, including 348 solo and 236 assisted, along with 9.5 sacks, 3 interceptions, 15 pass deflections, 2 fumble recoveries, and 30 tackles for loss, with no forced fumbles recorded.[1] The following table provides a year-by-year breakdown of his key defensive statistics:| Year | Team | G | GS | Comb | Solo | Ast | Sk | TFL | Int | FF | FR | PD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | CHI | 16 | 9 | 58 | 46 | 12 | 2.0 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 2014 | CHI | 13 | 8 | 84 | 58 | 26 | 0.0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| 2015 | NWE | 11 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2017 | IND | 14 | 14 | 97 | 57 | 40 | 1.0 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| 2018 | PIT | 16 | 14 | 73 | 46 | 27 | 2.5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| 2019 | WAS | 16 | 16 | 105 | 56 | 49 | 1.0 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| 2020 | WAS | 16 | 15 | 118 | 61 | 57 | 3.0 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| 2021 | WAS | 4 | 4 | 22 | 12 | 10 | 0.0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2022 | WAS | 15 | 5 | 25 | 11 | 14 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Career | - | 121 | 86 | 584 | 348 | 236 | 9.5 | 30 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 15 |