Robert Joshua Dobbs, affectionately nicknamed “the Passtronaut,” is a name that resonates with football fans for his resilience, versatility, and inspiring journey. Born on January 26, 1995, in Alpharetta, Georgia, Dobbs has carved out a unique path in the National Football League (NFL) as a journeyman quarterback who has played for nine different teams since being drafted in 2017. His career, marked by adaptability and determination, has made him a fan favorite and a symbol of perseverance in the face of constant change.
This article delves into Dobbs’ life, career, and the latest developments surrounding his professional journey, addressing common questions fans have been searching for on platforms like YouTube and Google. From his college days at Tennessee to his recent signing with the New England Patriots, we’ll explore what makes Joshua Dobbs a compelling figure in the NFL.
Early Life and Background
Joshua Dobbs was born and raised in Alpharetta, Georgia, to parents Stephanie and Robert Dobbs. His mother retired as a region manager in corporate human resources at United Parcel Service (UPS), while his father was a senior vice president at Wells Fargo. Growing up in a supportive and driven household, Dobbs was instilled with a strong work ethic and a passion for learning.
His early life was also shaped by a personal challenge: Dobbs was diagnosed with alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease causing hair loss, during his transition from elementary to junior high school. Despite this, he embraced his condition with confidence, becoming an advocate for self-acceptance.
Discovering Football
Dobbs began playing football at the age of five, showing early promise as an athlete. He attended Wesleyan School before moving to Alpharetta High School, where he excelled as a quarterback for the Raiders. As a senior, he threw for 3,625 yards and 29 touchdowns, earning a three-star rating from Rivals.com and a four-star rating from Scout.com. Initially committed to Arizona State University, Dobbs switched his commitment to the University of Tennessee in February 2013, setting the stage for his collegiate career.
College Career at Tennessee
Dobbs’ college career at the University of Tennessee began in 2013 as a true freshman. He appeared in five games, starting four, after starter Justin Worley was sidelined by injury. His first start came against the #10 Missouri Tigers, where he completed 26 of 42 passes for 240 yards in a 31–3 loss. Despite early struggles, Dobbs showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in a 27–14 victory over Kentucky, where he threw his first two career touchdown passes and added a 40-yard rushing touchdown. Over his freshman season, he completed 72 of 121 passes for 695 yards, two touchdowns, and six interceptions, while rushing for 189 yards and a touchdown.
Sophomore Breakthrough
In 2014, Dobbs competed with Justin Worley and Nathan Peterman for the starting quarterback role. After Worley’s injury in a loss to Ole Miss, Dobbs took over, delivering standout performances. Against South Carolina, he recorded 301 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, 166 rushing yards, and three rushing touchdowns in a 45–42 overtime victory.
His performance against Kentucky was equally impressive, with 297 passing yards and three touchdowns in a 50–16 win. Dobbs led Tennessee to their first bowl game since 2010, earning MVP honors in the 2015 TaxSlayer Bowl with 129 passing yards, a touchdown, and two rushing touchdowns in a 45–28 win over Iowa.
Junior and Senior Seasons
As Tennessee’s starting quarterback in 2015, Dobbs played all 12 regular-season games and the bowl game. He opened the season with 205 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a rushing touchdown against Bowling Green. A highlight of the year was a 58-yard receiving touchdown against Florida, thrown by teammate Jauan Jennings on a trick play, the first reception by a Tennessee quarterback since Peyton Manning in 1997.
In 2016, Dobbs reunited with Jennings for a memorable 43-yard Hail Mary pass against Georgia, securing a game-winning touchdown. Over his college career, Dobbs completed 614 of 999 passes (61.0%) for 7,138 yards and 53 touchdowns, while rushing for 2,160 yards and 32 touchdowns. He earned AP Second-Team All-SEC honors in 2016.
NFL Draft and Early Career
Dobbs was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round (135th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft. His nickname, “the Passtronaut,” stemmed from his academic background in aerospace engineering, a nod to his intelligence and ability to navigate complex playbooks. In Pittsburgh, Dobbs served primarily as a backup, appearing in seven games over his first three seasons, completing 10 of 17 passes for 45 yards and one interception. His time with the Steelers was marked by limited playing time behind Ben Roethlisberger, but he gained valuable experience learning from a veteran quarterback.
Journeyman Beginnings
Dobbs’ early NFL career was defined by movement. In 2019, he was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he served as a backup. He returned to Pittsburgh in 2020 before signing with the Cleveland Browns in 2022. Later that year, he joined the Tennessee Titans, where he made his first career starts. Dobbs started two games for the Titans, showcasing his dual-threat ability but struggling with consistency. His time with the Titans marked the beginning of his reputation as a journeyman quarterback, capable of stepping in at a moment’s notice.
Breakout Moments in 2023
Arizona Cardinals: Unexpected Starter In 2023, Dobbs was traded to the Arizona Cardinals just before the season, stepping into the starting role due to Kyler Murray’s knee injury. Named the Week 1 starter over rookie Clayton Tune, Dobbs started the first eight games, completing 62.8% of his passes for 1,569 yards, eight touchdowns, and five interceptions, while rushing for 421 yards and six touchdowns. His athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs were highlights, though his accuracy (67.9% on-target percentage, 30th in the NFL) needed improvement. Despite a 1-7 record, Dobbs showed he could handle starting duties under pressure.
Minnesota Vikings: The Passtronaut Shines Midway through the 2023 season, Dobbs was traded to the Minnesota Vikings after Kirk Cousins suffered an Achilles injury. Just days after joining the team, Dobbs came off the bench to lead a comeback victory against the Atlanta Falcons, completing 20 of 30 passes for 158 yards and two touchdowns, plus 66 rushing yards and a touchdown.
In his first start against the New Orleans Saints, he went 23 of 34 for 268 yards, a touchdown, and 44 rushing yards in a 27–19 win. However, his performance dipped in subsequent starts, including a four-interception game against the Chicago Bears, leading to his benching by Week 14. Despite the ups and downs, Dobbs’ ability to quickly learn a new playbook and contribute to wins earned him widespread admiration.
2024 Season with the San Francisco 49ers
In March 2024, Dobbs signed a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers to back up Brock Purdy. He spent most of the season as the third-string quarterback behind Purdy and Brandon Allen. However, with Purdy sidelined by an elbow injury in Week 17, Dobbs saw action in relief and was named the starter for the Week 18 finale against the Arizona Cardinals.
In that game, he completed 21 of 29 passes for 235 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, while rushing for 24 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the 47–24 loss, Dobbs’ performance showcased his ability to produce in a high-powered offense, connecting with players like Ricky Pearsall (30-yard pass), George Kittle (21-yard pass), and Jacob Cowing (10-yard touchdown). His three-turnover game was a mixed bag, but it provided valuable tape for future opportunities.
Preseason Highlights
Dobbs also made an impact in the 2024 preseason, particularly in a 16–10 win over the New Orleans Saints, where he led three consecutive scoring drives, including a 1-yard touchdown run. His mobility and quick decision-making were evident in plays like a 21-yard swing pass to Matt Breida and a 13-yard scramble against the Tennessee Titans. These performances solidified his reputation as a reliable backup with starter potential in the right system.
Move to the New England Patriots
In March 2025, Dobbs signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the New England Patriots, with $3.8 million fully guaranteed, to serve as the backup to second-year quarterback Drake Maye. The move reunited Dobbs with former Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel, raising questions about the Patriots’ quarterback depth chart, particularly regarding Joe Milton III, who was rumored to be a trade candidate. Dobbs’ experience, with 15 career starts across five teams and a 3-12 record, makes him a seasoned backup who can step in if needed. His signing was seen as a strategic move to provide stability behind the promising Maye.
Dobbs’ Playing Style and Strengths
Dual-Threat Quarterback: Dobbs is known for his athleticism and versatility. Over his career, he has rushed for 421 yards and six touchdowns in 23 games, with notable performances in 2023 (421 yards, six TDs) and 2024 (24 yards, two TDs). His ability to extend plays with his legs, as seen in his 13-yard scramble against the Titans and a fourth-down touchdown run in 2024, makes him a dynamic threat. His passing, while less consistent, has shown improvement in high-pressure situations, with a career completion rate of 62.6% (344 of 549 passes) for 3,281 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions.
Playbook Adaptability: One of Dobbs’ most remarkable traits is his ability to learn complex playbooks quickly. His 2023 stint with the Vikings, where he led a comeback just days after being traded, earned praise from coach Kevin O’Connell and fans on X. Dobbs himself downplayed the challenge, famously stating at Gruden’s QB Camp that “NFL playbooks are not rocket science,” a nod to his engineering background. This adaptability has made him a valuable asset for teams needing a quick fill-in starter.
Areas for Improvement: While Dobbs excels in mobility and quick learning, his accuracy and turnover issues have been points of criticism. His 67.9% on-target percentage in 2023 ranked 30th in the NFL, and his four-interception game with the Vikings highlighted decision-making struggles. In 2024, his three turnovers (two interceptions, one lost fumble) in the Week 18 start against Arizona were costly. Improving his precision and reducing mistakes will be key to securing a more permanent role.
Off the Field: The Passtronaut’s Impact
Aerospace Engineering and Advocacy: Dobbs’ academic background in aerospace engineering from Tennessee sets him apart. His nickname, “the Passtronaut,” reflects his intellectual prowess and ability to navigate high-pressure situations. He has embraced the moniker, even visiting NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland during the 2024 solar eclipse, an event that captured fans’ attention on X. Dobbs is also an advocate for alopecia awareness, using his platform to inspire others to embrace their differences. His story resonates with fans searching for “Joshua Dobbs personal life” on YouTube, where interviews highlight his humility and resilience.
Community Engagement: Dobbs has been active in community events, such as the NFLPA Classic golf tournament in March 2025, where he joined Patriots teammates Drake Maye and Marcus Jones. His media day appearances, like the Toyota 1-on-1 with the 49ers, showcased his personality through rapid-fire questions about game-day traditions and music preferences. These moments, often shared on YouTube, endear him to fans who appreciate his relatability.
What’s Next for Joshua Dobbs?
Role with the Patriots: As of July 2025, Dobbs is poised to serve as the backup to Drake Maye in New England. His experience makes him a reliable option if Maye, a second-year quarterback, faces challenges. However, with Joe Milton III as a potential third-string quarterback, there’s speculation about roster changes or trades, as noted in articles from FOX Sports and Yardbarker. Fans searching for “Joshua Dobbs Patriots role” are curious about whether he’ll see playing time or remain a mentor figure.
Potential for a Starting Role: While Dobbs is currently a backup, his history suggests he could compete for a starting role if injuries or roster changes occur. His Week 18 performance in 2024 was viewed as an “audition” for other teams, and with his contract running through 2026, he has opportunities to prove himself. YouTube searches for “Joshua Dobbs future” reflect fans’ interest in whether he’ll land a more prominent role or continue as a journeyman.
FAQs
What college did Joshua Dobbs attend?
Dobbs attended the University of Tennessee, where he played as the starting quarterback for the Volunteers football team from 2014 to 2016. He was known for his dual-threat ability, combining passing skills with impressive running ability.
Has Joshua Dobbs played as a starter in the NFL?
While primarily a backup quarterback, Joshua Dobbs has had several opportunities to start NFL games, especially when injuries affected the starting lineup. His performance in these games has been solid, demonstrating leadership and adaptability.
Where can I watch highlights of Joshua Dobbs?
You can watch Joshua Dobbs’ highlights and game performances on platforms like YouTube, the official NFL website, and sports networks such as ESPN and NFL Network. Many fans post highlight reels showing his athletic plays and key game moments.
What is Joshua Dobbs known for off the field?
Joshua Dobbs is recognized for his strong faith, community involvement, and intellectual pursuits. He’s notably an aerospace engineering graduate, which is unique among NFL players. Dobbs is also active in charity work and mentoring young athletes.
In Summary
Joshua Dobbs, the Passtronaut, is more than just a quarterback; he’s a symbol of adaptability, resilience, and intelligence in the NFL. From his standout college career at Tennessee to his journeyman journey across nine teams, Dobbs has consistently defied expectations. His 2023 heroics with the Vikings, 2024 contributions with the 49ers, and recent signing with the Patriots highlight his ability to thrive under pressure. Off the field, his advocacy for alopecia awareness and engagement with fans through events and media make him a beloved figure.
As fans continue to search for his highlights, personal story, and future prospects on YouTube and Google, Dobbs remains a player to watch, ready to take the next snap whether as a backup or a starter. With his unique blend of athleticism, intellect, and heart, Joshua Dobbs’ journey is far from over.
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