Joshua Dobbs, an American football quarterback currently with the Tennessee Titans in the NFL, was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Throughout his career, he has additionally contributed to teams such as the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Detroit Lions. Recognized for his exceptional athletic prowess, intelligence, and leadership qualities both on and off the field, this article delves into Joshua Dobbs’ ethnic background. We will explore his family history, cultural influences, and personal perspectives regarding his mixed heritage.

Joshua Dobbs’ Parents: Robert and Stephanie Dobbs

Born on January 26, 1995, in Alpharetta, Georgia, Joshua Dobbs is the son of Robert and Stephanie Dobbs. While both parents are of African-American descent, their ancestral origins differ. A genealogy test reveals that Robert Dobbs has a heritage of 75% African, 22% European, and 3% Native American, whereas Stephanie Dobbs’ background comprises 85% African, 13% European, and 2% Native American. Consequently, Joshua Dobbs embodies a diverse ethnicity, encompassing African, European, and Native American roots.

The Dobbs family narrative unfolds at the University of Tennessee, where Robert and Stephanie Dobbs crossed paths and graduated with degrees in business administration. Presently, Robert serves as a senior vice president at Wells Fargo bank, while Stephanie, having retired from United Parcel Service as a regional manager in organizational human resources, contributes to the family’s success story. Throughout Joshua Dobbs’ journey, his parents have fervently supported his dreams and attended all of his games. Instilling in him the virtues of hard work, education, and faith, they have played a pivotal role in shaping his values and aspirations.

Joshua Dobbs’ Education: Aerospace Engineering and Omicron Delta Kappa

Joshua Dobbs distinguished himself both academically and athletically during his educational journey, attending Wesleyan School and Alpharetta High School. As the star quarterback for the Alpharetta Raiders football team, Dobbs showcased his prowess by amassing 3,625 passing yards and 29 touchdowns in his senior year. Simultaneously, he maintained an impressive 4.0 GPA and actively participated in the National Honor Society, Beta Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Opting for the University of Tennessee, Dobbs pursued aerospace engineering and graduated with honors in 2017, achieving a noteworthy 3.75 GPA with a minor in business administration. A standout player for the Tennessee Volunteers football team, Dobbs played a pivotal role in their consecutive 9-4 seasons and secured four bowl victories. Notably, he set several school records, including the highest number of rushing touchdowns by a quarterback (32) and the most passing yards in a single game (530).

Beyond the field and classroom, Joshua Dobbs immersed himself in extracurricular activities and community service at the University of Tennessee. Actively involved in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, the Chancellor’s Honors Program, and the Vol Leaders Academy, Dobbs demonstrated a commitment to holistic development. His exceptional contributions earned him induction into Omicron Delta Kappa, a prestigious national leadership honor society recognizing excellence in scholarship, athletics, service, and campus involvement.

Joshua Dobbs’ NFL Career: From the Steelers to the Titans

Joshua Dobbs entered the NFL scene when the Pittsburgh Steelers selected him in the fourth round of the 2017 draft, making him the 135th overall pick. Despite being the seventh quarterback chosen, following Mitchell Trubisky, Patrick Mahomes, Deshaun Watson, DeShone Kizer, Davis Webb, and C.J. Beathard, Dobbs began his rookie season as the third-string quarterback behind Ben Roethlisberger and Landry Jones, remaining on the sidelines throughout the regular season.

In 2018, Dobbs vied for the backup quarterback position against Mason Rudolph and secured the role. He made appearances in five games, completing six of 12 passes for 43 yards with an interception. Additionally, he carried the ball four times for a total of 11 yards. The following year, he was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick, a move prompted by the Steelers acquiring Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Miami Dolphins. Dobbs played a single game for the Jaguars, throwing one pass that resulted in an interception returned for a touchdown.

Returning to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020 after being claimed off waivers from the Jaguars, Dobbs resumed his role as the third-string quarterback. He appeared in two games, completing four of five passes for two yards and making three rushing attempts for a total of 20 yards.

In 2021, Dobbs signed with the Detroit Lions as a free agent but was released before the regular season commenced. Subsequently, he joined the Lions’ practice squad for the initial 14 weeks of the season. On December 21, 2021, the Tennessee Titans signed Dobbs from the Lions’ practice squad following an injury to their starting quarterback, Ryan Tannehill. Dobbs made his inaugural career start against the Dallas Cowboys on December 29, 2021, throwing his first touchdown pass to Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. Despite completing 15 of 28 passes for 163 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, and adding six rushing attempts for 31 yards, the Titans suffered a 27-13 defeat.

Joshua Dobbs’ Ethnicity: How He Identifies with His Mixed Heritage

Joshua Dobbs possesses a diverse heritage, with African, European, and Native American roots, yet he proudly identifies as African-American. He takes immense pride in his cultural background, celebrating its diversity and richness. Dobbs holds a deep respect for the various cultures and backgrounds of others, aspiring to be a positive role model and leader within his community.

A vocal advocate for addressing racial injustice and social inequality, Dobbs actively engages in peaceful protests, such as kneeling during the national anthem. Leveraging his platform, he endeavors to raise awareness and advocate for meaningful change. Dobbs contributes both time and resources to causes supporting the empowerment and education of African-American youth, including organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the 100 Black Men of America.

Inspired by the achievements of prominent African-Americans in history, particularly those excelling in STEM fields, Dobbs cites figures such as Mae Jemison, Ronald McNair, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson as his role models. Expressing a desire to follow in their footsteps, he aspires to pursue a career in aerospace engineering after concluding his NFL journey.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Dobbs is a well-rounded individual who places a high value on family, faith, and community. Unafraid to stand up for his beliefs and make a positive impact, Joshua Dobbs is a remarkable individual who embodies resilience, diversity, and a commitment to making a difference in the world.