Introduction
Joshua Bynes (born August 24, 1989) is an American football linebacker for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He played college football at Auburn.
Early years and college
Bynes grew up in Florida and went to college at Auburn, where he played football. Bynes anchored the middle of the Auburn defense for three consecutive years, garnering 2nd Team All-SEC honors as a senior.
Professional career
Baltimore Ravens
Bynes went undrafted in the 2011 NFL Draft. He was later signed as an undrafted free agent by the Baltimore Ravens. In the preseason finale, Bynes made a strong case for a roster spot with a six tackle, two sack game for Baltimore. He was, however, released. After trying out for several teams, Bynes was re-signed to the practice squad by the Ravens after injuries to linebackers Ray Lewis and Dannell Ellerbe. Bynes was upgraded to the active roster in a Thanksgiving Day win over the San Francisco 49ers but was inactive. Bynes was later released again.
In 2012, Bynes suffered a cracked vertebrae during training camp. He was added to the active roster on October 17, replacing Ray Lewis, who was moved to injured reserve. Bynes made his first career start on December 16, against the Denver Broncos, where he made a career-best 13 tackles in a 34–17 loss.
In Super Bowl XLVII, Bynes tackled Ted Ginn, Jr. after a free kick in the final seconds of the game to clinch the Ravens' victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
Bynes began the 2013 season as a starter but gradually saw his playing time decrease after Jameel McClain returned from an injury in week 7. Even still, Bynes had the statistically best season of his career ending the year with 45 total tackles.
On March 11, 2014, Bynes signed the Ravens exclusive rights tender, worth $570,000 for the 2014 season.
Detroit Lions
On September 22, 2014, Bynes was signed off of the Ravens' practice squad onto the Lions' active roster following injuries. On March 10, 2015, the Lions re-signed Bynes to a two-year contract.
Bynes was placed on injured reserve and was then released from IR on September 10, 2016. He was re-signed to the Lions active roster on October 25, 2016.