Andy Isabella

Andy Isabella's Biography

Andy Isabella, born on November 18, 1996, has carved out a distinguished career in American professional football over the years. Born into an Italian heritage, his athletic career got a head-start in high school, where he first embraced his potential as a sprinter. During his senior year in Mayfield High School, Ohio, he notably defeated future NFL player, Denzel War, to win the state title in the 100-meter dash. Isabella’s athletic prowess extended beyond the tracks; he played football too, and he went on to commit to the University of Massachusetts (UMass) to further his football career.

At UMass, Isabella, initially positioned as a running back, made a strategic decision to switch to a wide receiver position during his sophomore year. His career from 2015 to 2018 proved outstanding, marking a broad football career that saw him secure 231 receptions spanning through 3,526 yards and recording 30 touchdowns. His impressive performances earned him distinctions including being a finalist for the prestigious Fred Biletnikoff Award and a place on the All-American team during his senior year.

Earlier, in 2018, he had distinguished himself as the country’s top player in receiving yards– per game– and through his college football career, he consistently showed exceptional athleticism and skill. His dedication to the craft saw Pro Football Focus name him the top-rated wide receiver in college football, a reflection of the remarkable season he had, posting a season grade of 93.2.

Following his thriving college career, Isabella declared for the 2019 NFL draft after his senior season. He left a notable impression at the draft combine after running a 4.31 second 40-yard dash, claiming the third fastest time that year, a record he charmingly shared with Parris Campbell, a fellow player from Ohio State.

The Arizona Cardinals recognized his incredible talent and potential at the NFL draft, and they selected him with their 62nd pick in the second round. He joined the team after they traded Josh Rosen to the Miami Dolphins. In Arizona, Isabella began his professional career in earnest and crafted some remarkable highlights. One of them being his first-ever professional touchdown in an intense game against the San Francisco 49ers, where he made an 88-yard touchdown. He totaled his rookie season with an impressive nine receptions for 189 receiving yards and the one touchdown in his name.

In his second season, particularly in an unfortunate 26-23 loss to the Detroit Lions, he achieved four receptions for 47 receiving yards and two touchdowns. However, the 2021 season didn’t quite favor him; he was listed sixth on the Cardinals’ depth chart for wide receivers and only managed one catch for the entire season, leading to him being inactive for half the time.

On October 4, 2022, the Cardinals waived Isabella, but the Baltimore Ravens would pick him up just six days later for their practice squad. Eventually, he was promoted to the active roster but suffered a thigh injury during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, he’d bounce back in time for a playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals. After the game, on January 19, 2023, he sealed a reserve/future contract.

Unfortunately, he was released on July 25, 2023. Three days later, on July 28, the Buffalo Bills signed him. Although waived on August 29, 2023, he was re-signed to the practice squad and played in only two regular-season games along with two playoff games. Following that season, he signed another reserve/future contract on January 22, 2024. Despite hopes of a bright future with the Bills, he was released once again on August 27, 2024.

Despite the ups and downs, Andy Isabella remains a figure to admire in professional American football, proving his mettle with each game and undisputedly leaving a mark on the sports scene.