Jody Fortson

Jody Fortson's Biography

Joseph Demarius “Jody” Fortson Jr., widely recognized as an accomplished professional football player, was born on December 7, 1995. Having etched his name in the annals of gridiron history as a formidable tight end for the celebrated Kansas City Chiefs, Fortson’s trajectory into the professional spaces of the National Football League (NFL) reflects an iconic journey laced with tenacity, perseverance, and pure talent.

Fortson’s tryst with football began at a young age, and he decided to pursue the grueling sport at the competitive collegiate level. He initiated his journey at Erie Community College, preparing and bettering his skills for an escalated level of competition. His dedication and prowess on the field did not go unnoticed and offered him an opportunity to transfer to Valdosta State. Here, Fortson’s role as a wide receiver was definitive of his team’s performance and success.

Proving his athletic mettle, Fortson showcased consistent agility and control on the field. Over his tenure with the Valdosta State Blazers, he recorded an impressive tally of 37 receptions over 19 games, doubling up with 477 yards and seven touchdowns. However, during his senior season, an unfortunate injury truncated his play time. Still, the remarkable contribution to his team assured the Blazers’ win in the NCAA Division II National Championship.

Despite the setback, Fortson’s skills were gratefully recognized and found him spots in prestigious events like the Tropical Bowl and the College Gridiron Showcase.

As he prepared to step into the league, Fortson pivoted his position, transforming from a wide receiver to a tight end. His career in the NFL took flight when he signed an undrafted free agent contract with the Kansas City Chiefs on May 13, 2019.

Over the following several months, despite several waivers and reassignments to the practice squad, Fortson left a ripple in the history of the NFL when he accomplished the first Super Bowl victory, Super Bowl LIV, with the Kansas City Chiefs against the formidable San Francisco 49ers whilst part of the Chiefs’ practice squad. This triumph brought about a renewed contract with the Chiefs, marking a defining point in his professional career.

In the course of the 2021 season, Fortson carved his niche further by recording his first-ever NFL reception against the Baltimore Ravens, swiftly followed by his maiden NFL touchdown the following week squaring off with the Los Angeles Chargers. Even though the season brought about certain setbacks like being placed in injured reserve and Contracting COVID-19, Fortson’s contribution did not go unnoticed. Across six games, he had impressive stats, with five receptions amounting to 47 yards and two touchdowns.

The 2022 season saw Fortson maintain a steady presence on the field, with his stats rising significantly. However, an unfortunate elbow injury cropped up during a game against the Houston Texans, pushing him into season-ending injured reserve. Yet, this season was especially notable as it registered his second Super Bowl win, witnessing the Chiefs’ victory over the Philadelphia Eagles at Super Bowl LVII.

The next year witnessed Fortson signing a one-year minimal league contract after a tenure related to exclusive rights. He was unfortunate to suffer a dislocated shoulder, placing him in injured reserve. Despite his absence, the Kansas City Chiefs managed to secure another victory in Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers, providing Fortson his third Super Bowl championship.

Following a brief signing and later release by the Miami Dolphins in 2024, Fortson found his way back to familiar turf, signing with the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad. Within a week, he found himself promoted back to the active roster, marking the next chapter in his dynamic and ever-evolving NFL career. Though his journey has undeniably been filled with roadblocks and challenges, Fortson’s unyielding determination has allowed him to turn each setback into a stepping stone, proving his invaluable contribution to the league. His storied career serves as an inspiration for all football enthusiasts, symbolizing the beauty of determination, and the sweet rewards of hard-earned victories.