Austin Blythe

BIOGRAPHY

Austin Blythe, born on June 16, 1992, made his name as an American football center with a stellar career in the National Football League (NFL) spanning seven seasons. Hailing from Iowa, Blythe’s career sprung from college football, crisscrossed several NFL teams, and culminated with an impressive record as one of the most devoted players in American football history.

Blythe’s prompt interest in football was nurtured at an early stage, leading him to become a phenomenal player during his college years at Iowa. He was a remarkable figure with a persistent presence on the football field, securing a spot as a starter for four consecutive years and appearing in 52 games. Blythe showcased a climactic performance during his senior year when he drove the Hawkeyes towards an uninterrupted 12–0 win, thereby making way for them to participate in the Big Ten Championship and the prestigious 2016 Rose Bowl. So impressive was his performance in his final college year that he found himself as a finalist for the respectable Rimington Award, an annual salute to the nation’s top center.

Blythe’s professional career kicked off with the Indianapolis Colts, who tactically drafted him in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL draft. Aligning with the Colts was a significant stepping stone for Blythe. Having been drafted 248th overall, he signed his rookie contract with the Colts on May 5, 2016, embarking on what came to be an illustrious career in American football. As a fledgling in the league, he functioned essentially as a backup center in the 2016 season under the expert guidance of fellow rookie Ryan Kelly, participating in eight games and scoring one start.

A sudden transition surfaced in Blythe’s journey in 2017. He was waived by the Colts on May 15 and soon after claimed off waivers by the Los Angeles Rams on May 16, 2017. This shift marked a new chapter in his career where he appeared in all the 16 games of that year and secured his first start. Following a spectacular performance as a start of the season in Week 17 at left guard, he earned his place as the starting right guard in the 2018 season.

Impressively, even after the return of previous holder Jamon Brown, Blythe retained his starting role, leaving a significant mark in the Rams’ history books. This led to an extension of his contract with the Rams on March 26, 2020.

In 2021, Blythe hopped to another team, the Kansas City Chiefs, signing a contract on April 5. His adventure notched higher as he found his way to the Seattle Seahawks in 2022, playing and starting 17 games in his first year. Blythe’s journey with the Seahawks also featured his start in the wild card round.

By February 28, 2023, Blythe chose to retire from the NFL after seven compelling and diverse seasons. Reflecting upon his vibrant career, Blythe’s commitment and contribution to American football remain commendable and inspiring.

Blythe is a proud alumnus of Williamsburg High School in Iowa, his sporting prowess extending beyond football to wrestling. Here, he was not only a two-time all-state football player but also a triumphant three-time state-wrestling champion. He married Kiley Ritchie, his childhood acquaintance and daughter of his high school football coach, in 2015. Their family now includes three beautiful children, two daughters and a son, cherished testaments to their long-standing bond. Blythe’s inspiring career will certainly remain as an everlasting memory in the annals of American sports.