Early Life & Background

Andrew Billings was born and raised in Waco, Texas, a city with a rich football tradition that has produced numerous NFL talent. Growing up in a football-centric environment, Billings was exposed to the sport at an early age, developing a passion for the game that would ultimately shape his future. Waco’s high school football programs, including La Vega High School and Midway High School, have historically been strong pipelines to collegiate and professional football, and Billings’ upbringing in this environment played a significant role in his athletic development.

Billings’ physical stature became apparent early in his life. By the time he reached high school, he had already grown into a large and imposing figure, standing over six feet tall and weighing well over 250 pounds. This natural size advantage allowed him to dominate in youth football leagues and ultimately catch the attention of high school coaches. The combination of his size, strength, and competitive drive set him apart from his peers, laying the foundation for a potential collegiate football career.

Football in Texas is not just a sport but a cultural institution, and Billings’ upbringing in Waco provided him with the discipline, work ethic, and competitive mindset necessary to succeed at the highest levels. His early experiences playing football in Texas’ competitive youth leagues and high school circuits helped him refine his skills and develop the technical aspects of his game. The influence of coaches, teammates, and the broader football community in Waco undoubtedly shaped Billings’ approach to the game, instilling in him values such as perseverance, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

High School Career

Andrew Billings attended Midway High School in Waco, Texas, where he established himself as one of the top defensive linemen in the state. Midway High School, part of the Midway Independent School District, has a storied football program with a history of producing NFL-caliber talent. Billings quickly made an impact on the field, utilizing his imposing size and strength to dominate opposing offensive lines.

During his high school career, Billings played both defensive tackle and defensive end, showcasing his versatility and ability to excel in multiple roles along the defensive line. His exceptional physical attributes—including his 6’1” height and 311-pound frame even in high school—made him a formidable force against opposing offenses. Billings’ combination of size, power, and athleticism allowed him to overpower offensive linemen, disrupt plays in the backfield, and consistently generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Billings’ performance on the field did not go unnoticed. He earned numerous accolades and recognition for his play, including being named to multiple All-District and All-Region teams. His dominance in high school football earned him invitations to prestigious high school all-star games, including the Under Armour All-America Game, where he further showcased his skills against the nation’s top prospects. These performances solidified his reputation as one of the top defensive linemen in the 2016 high school recruiting class.

In addition to his success on the field, Billings was also a standout student-athlete, maintaining a strong academic record throughout his high school career. His ability to balance athletics and academics demonstrated his discipline and commitment to personal growth, qualities that would serve him well in his collegiate and professional football careers.

College Career

Andrew Billings attended Baylor University.

NFL Draft

Andrew Billings entered the 2016 NFL Draft as one of the top defensive tackle prospects in a deep class of interior linemen. His combination of size, strength, and high school accolades made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams looking to bolster their defensive lines. Heading into the draft, Billings was projected as a potential early-round pick, with some analysts speculating that he could be selected as high as the second round given his physical tools and potential.

The draft process provided Billings with the opportunity to showcase his abilities in front of NFL scouts and team personnel. He participated in the NFL Scouting Combine, where he demonstrated his impressive athleticism for a player of his size, posting strong numbers in the bench press, vertical jump, and broad jump. His performance at the combine further solidified his standing as a top prospect, attracting the attention of several NFL franchises.

On the third day of the 2016 NFL Draft, Billings was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round with the 122nd overall pick. The Bengals, known for their defensive prowess during this era, saw Billings as a developmental prospect with the potential to develop into a productive interior pass rusher and run-stuffer. His selection in the draft marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, as he fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming an NFL player.

The Bengals’ selection of Billings was met with optimism from fans and analysts alike. His draft position reflected his potential, and many believed that with the right development and coaching, he could carve out a successful career in the NFL. Billings’ journey from a high school standout in Waco to an NFL draft pick was a testament to his talent, work ethic, and perseverance.

Professional Career

Andrew Billings’ NFL career has been marked by both promise and challenges, as he navigated the competitive landscape of professional football while developing his skills as a defensive tackle. Drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2016, Billings spent three seasons with the organization before embarking on a journey that would see him join multiple teams across the league.

Billings’ rookie season in 2016 was largely developmental, as he acclimated to the speed and physicality of the NFL. He spent time on the Bengals’ practice squad and was eventually promoted to the active roster, where he made his NFL debut. During his rookie year, Billings played in seven games, recording five tackles. While his playing time was limited, his performances in practice and limited game action provided glimpses of his potential. His ability to absorb double teams and generate push in the interior of the defensive line suggested that he could develop into a reliable run-stuffer.

In 2017, Billings saw an increased role in the Bengals’ defensive scheme. He played in 12 games, including three starts, and recorded 20 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two passes defended. His performance against the run remained a strength, as he frequently occupied multiple blockers and freed up linebackers to make plays. Billings’ ability to disrupt passing lanes also became evident, as he showcased his athleticism and quickness in short-yardage situations. While his sack total was modest, his impact on the game was often felt in ways that did not show up in traditional statistics, such as drawing holding penalties and altering offensive game plans.

The 2018 season proved to be a challenging one for Billings and the Bengals as a whole. The team struggled to find consistency on both sides of the ball, and Billings’ role in the defense was reduced. He played in eight games, recording 14 tackles and half a sack. Despite the team’s struggles, Billings continued to demonstrate flashes of his potential, particularly in run defense. However, his playing time was limited, and he was not re-signed by the Bengals following the season.

Following his departure from Cincinnati, Billings signed with the Cleveland Browns in 2019, hoping to revitalize his career under new coaching staff. The Browns, a team on the rise with a talented roster, provided Billings with an opportunity to compete for a role in their defensive line rotation. However, his tenure in Cleveland lasted just one season, as he played in three games before being released. The lack of consistent playing time and the competitive nature of the Browns’ defensive line made it difficult for Billings to establish himself in the lineup.

In 2020, Billings joined the Houston Texans, where he was reunited with head coach Bill O’Brien, who had previously served as the offensive coordinator in Cincinnati during Billings’ tenure with the Bengals. The Texans provided Billings with another opportunity to showcase his skills, but his playing time remained limited. He played in eight games, recording 12 tackles and 1.5 sacks. While his sack total was respectable, his overall impact on the game was often overshadowed by the team’s struggles on defense.

Billings’ next stop was the Washington Football Team in 2021, where he signed a one-year contract. Playing under head coach Ron Rivera, Billings was part of a defensive line rotation that included Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne. He played in 12 games, recording 17 tackles and 1.5 sacks. His role in Washington’s defense was primarily as a rotational player, providing depth and situational pass rush. Billings’ ability to contribute in short-yardage situations and third-down packages was valued by the coaching staff, and he demonstrated that he could be a reliable presence in the interior of the defense.

After his season in Washington, Billings signed with the Arizona Cardinals in 2022, reuniting with head coach Jonathan Gannon, who had previously served as the defensive coordinator in Philadelphia. The Cardinals, a team in transition, provided Billings with an opportunity to compete for a role in their defensive line rotation. He played in 11 games, recording 11 tackles and one sack. While his playing time was not as extensive as he might have hoped, Billings continued to contribute in key moments, particularly against the run.

In the 2023 season, Billings returned to the Arizona Cardinals for a second consecutive year. His role expanded slightly, as he played in 12 games and recorded 25 tackles, including three for loss, and two sacks. His most significant contribution came in Week 17 against the Los Angeles Rams, where he recorded a sack and forced a fumble that was recovered by a teammate. The play exemplified Billings’ ability to make a difference in critical moments and showcased his growth as a professional.

Billings’ NFL career thus far has been characterized by perseverance and adaptability. While he has not developed into a full-time starter, his ability to contribute in various roles along the defensive line has kept him in the league for multiple seasons. His journey serves as a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed at the highest level of professional football.

Playing Style & Strengths

Andrew Billings’ playing style is defined by his combination of size, strength, and athleticism, which allows him to excel in run defense and provide situational pass rush. Standing at 6’1” and weighing 311 pounds, Billings possesses the physical attributes necessary to overpower offensive linemen and occupy multiple blockers. His ability to anchor against the run is a cornerstone of his game, as he frequently stalemates opposing offensive lines and disrupts offensive game plans.

One of Billings’ greatest strengths is his power at the point of attack. His lower-body strength and leverage enable him to drive offensive linemen backward, creating running lanes for his teammates to make plays. Billings’ ability to control the line of scrimmage is particularly evident in short-yardage and goal-line situations, where he often draws multiple blockers and frees up linebackers to make tackling plays. His physicality and tenacity make him a reliable run-stuffer, a trait that has kept him in the NFL despite fluctuations in playing time.

In pass rush situations, Billings relies on his strength and quickness to generate pressure on the quarterback. While he is not a dynamic edge rusher, his ability to bull rush offensive linemen and collapse the pocket in passing situations makes him a valuable interior disruptor. Billings’ technique in pass rush involves using his hands to shed blocks and his lower-body strength to drive forward, often drawing holding penalties on opposing linemen. His ability to disrupt passing lanes also makes him a threat in underneath coverage, where he can deflect or intercept short passes.

Billings’ athleticism, though not elite for his position, is a notable asset. His performance at the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine demonstrated his explosiveness, as he recorded a 31-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-2 broad jump. While these numbers may not stand out compared to elite defensive tackles, they are impressive for a player of his size and frame. His athleticism allows him to move laterally in short areas, making him difficult to block in space and enhancing his versatility as a two-gap defender.

Another strength of Billings’ game is his football IQ and understanding of defensive schemes. His ability to read offensive formations and react quickly to plays demonstrates his comprehension of defensive principles. Billings’ experience playing in multiple systems across the NFL has honed his ability to adapt to different coaching philosophies, making him a valuable rotational player.

Despite his strengths, Billings has faced challenges in his professional career, particularly in terms of consistency and durability. His durability has been a point of concern at times, as injuries have occasionally limited his availability. However, his ability to bounce back and remain a contributing member of NFL defenses speaks to his resilience and professionalism.

Personal Life

Off the field, Andrew Billings is known for his quiet and humble demeanor, traits that have endeared him to teammates and coaches alike. While he has maintained a relatively low public profile compared to some of his peers, those who have worked with him often describe him as a hardworking, dependable, and team-first individual. His focus on football and commitment to improving his game have been central to his approach to professional football.

Billings has been active in community outreach and charitable initiatives, particularly in his hometown of Waco, Texas. His involvement in local programs reflects his gratitude for the support he received during his formative years and his desire to give back to the community that helped shape his career. While specific details about his charitable work are not widely publicized, Billings’ commitment to making a positive impact off the field is a testament to his character and values.

In terms of his personal interests, Billings has kept much of his life private. He is known to be a family-oriented individual, with close ties to his parents and siblings. His upbringing in Waco has played a significant role in shaping his values, and he has often spoken about the importance of family and community in his life. Billings’ ability to balance the demands of professional football with his personal commitments demonstrates his discipline and maturity.

Despite the challenges he has faced in his NFL career, Billings has maintained a positive outlook and a strong work ethic. His longevity in the league is a testament to his dedication to the game and his ability to adapt to the ever-changing demands of professional football. Billings’ personal life reflects the same traits that have defined his professional career: resilience, humility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Legacy & Future Outlook

Andrew Billings’ NFL career, while not defined by All-Pro accolades or Pro Bowl selections, is a story of perseverance and adaptability. His journey from a high school standout in Waco, Texas, to a journeyman defensive tackle in the NFL serves as an example of the challenges and rewards of professional football. While he has not developed into a full-time starter or a household name, Billings’ contributions to multiple teams demonstrate his value as a rotational player and situational specialist.

As of the 2023 season, Billings is under contract with the Arizona Cardinals for the 2024 season, providing him with an opportunity to continue his career in the NFL. His role with the Cardinals has expanded in recent years, and he has become a trusted presence in the defensive line rotation. Billings’ ability to contribute in run defense, pass rush, and special teams makes him a valuable asset to the team, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

Looking ahead, Billings’ future in the NFL may depend on his ability to remain a productive rotational player. The league’s evolving emphasis on interior pass rush and versatility along the defensive line provides opportunities for players like Billings to contribute. His experience and football IQ make him a prime candidate for a role as a mentor or special teams contributor as his career progresses. Additionally, his durability and work ethic will be crucial in maintaining his place in the league.

For a player who has spent nearly a decade in the NFL, Billings’ longevity is a testament to his adaptability and commitment to the game. While he may never be the most decorated player in NFL history, his career serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance in professional sports. Billings’ story is one of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence, qualities that have defined his journey from Waco to the NFL.