Alex Erickson

Alex Michael Erickson, born on November 6, 1992, has built a notable career in American football. Currently a free agent, Erickson has flaunted his skills as a wide receiver and return specialist, plying his trade with various teams including the Cincinnati Bengals, Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, Washington Commanders, and more in a journey that commenced with undrafted free agency in 2016.

During his high school years at Darlington, Erickson’s talent was apparent. He recorded 3,856 yards and 57 touchdowns through rushing, 3,648 yards and 37 touchdowns in passing, and 170 tackles with 14 interceptions. His academic and career achievements were recognized as he was named the Wisconsin State Journal Small School Player of the Year. Furthermore, he was selected to feature in the WFCA All-Star game.The all-around player was also a first-team all-state as a defensive back and a first-team all-conference as a quarterback and defensive back.

Joining the University of Wisconsin, Erickson lettered for three years, finishing ranked 10th in the school’s history with 1,877 receiving yards, and sixth with 141 career receptions. As he moved from his first to second season, Erickson saw an expansion in his role in the offense, recording 55 receptions for 772 yards and three receiving touchdowns in 13 games. Erickson’s senior season was arguably his most successful—he caught 77 passes and was awarded first-team All-Big Ten Conference media, second-team All-Big Ten coaches, and Academic All-Big Ten honors, marking his third consecutive year earning the latter.

Erickson kickstarted his professional journey with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2016. As an undrafted free agent, his commitment saw him be the sole undrafted player to make it to the Bengals’ final roster. Throughout that season, Erickson served as the primary kick returner and punt returner, even while functioning as a backup receiver. His record-breaking contribution of 810 kickoff return yards stood as the highest in NFL that year.

Famed for his performance during the 20-17 victory over the Denver Broncos in 2017, Erickson recorded his first NFL touchdown. By the end of that season, he had tallied 12 receptions for 180 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown, 32 kick returns, and 39 punt returns. His consistent performance paid off, and Erickson penned a two-year extension contract with Bengals. He ended the 2018 season with 20 receptions for 187 yards.

The following season Erickson showcased his skills in a match against the Jacksonville Jaguars, leading to his first career 100+ receiving yard game, ending the season with 43 receptions and 529 receiving yards.

Venturing into fresh terrains, Erickson signed with the Houston Texans in March 2021, moving to the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad the same year, and eventually made it to their active roster. He then linked with Washington Commanders in May 2022. Despite being waived by August, he rejoined the following day.

January 2023 saw Erickson sign a reserve/future contract, although short-lived as he was released by May. His journey continued with the New York Jets that July, followed by a brief spell on the Los Angeles Chargers’ practice squad, and he was then promoted to active status by December.

Away from the field, Erickson married in 2017 and, having graduated from Wisconsin in December 2015, holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business management, showcasing his academic competence alongside his football prowess.