If you’re a fan of the NFL or just curious about rising stars making their mark, Raheem Blackshear is a name you’ll want to remember. As a running back and return specialist for the Carolina Panthers, Blackshear has quickly become a versatile player on the field.
In this article, you’ll get a complete look at his personal life, early and professional career, contract and salary details, net worth, and NFL career stats. You’ll also find answers to the most common questions fans ask about Raheem Blackshear, all in a straightforward, easy-to-read style.
Raheem Blackshear’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Raheem Blackshear |
| Date of Birth | June 5, 1998 |
| Age | 27 |
| Education | Virginia Tech (Criminology degree) |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’9” (1.76 m) |
| Weight | 190–194 lbs (86–88 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2022 |
| Net Worth | ~$2.5–$2.7 million |
| Salary | $1,100,000 |
| Career Earnings | ~$2.7 million |
| Wife/Girlfriend | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
| Twitter Profile | N/A |
Early Career
Raheem Blackshear grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he attended Archbishop Wood Catholic High School. He led his high school team to an 11-2 record and a state championship, rushing for over 1,200 yards and 19 touchdowns in his senior year. His standout performances earned him First Team 5A All-State honors as an athlete by the Pennsylvania Football Writers.
Blackshear began his college football journey at Rutgers University. At Rutgers, he became known for his ability to catch passes out of the backfield, a rare skill for running backs.
In his sophomore season, he caught 44 passes, showing his reliability as a receiver. He continued to impress, even in his junior year when he only played in four games but still managed to catch 29 passes for 310 yards. These numbers highlighted his trustworthiness and versatility on the field.
After three seasons at Rutgers, Blackshear transferred to Virginia Tech, where he played two more years. At Virginia Tech, he adapted to a more run-focused offense and played behind future NFL running back Khalil Herbert.
Despite this, Blackshear still managed to contribute as both a runner and a pass-catcher. He earned his degree in criminology in 2021, showcasing his commitment to both academics and athletics during his college years.
Professional Career
Raheem Blackshear entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2022, signing with the Buffalo Bills. Although he was waived before the regular season began, he quickly found a home with the Carolina Panthers, who signed him off the Bills’ practice squad in September 2022. His versatility as a running back and return specialist made him a valuable addition to the Panthers’ roster.
Blackshear made an immediate impact, scoring his first NFL touchdown in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals later that year. In his rookie season, he scored three rushing touchdowns and contributed on special teams as a kick returner.
Over the next two seasons, Blackshear continued to be a reliable contributor, appearing in 12 games in 2023 and all 16 games in 2024. He has shown promise as a return specialist, averaging 8.7 yards per punt return and 26.3 yards per kickoff return over his NFL career.
Blackshear re-signed with the Panthers on a one-year contract, securing his place on the team for another season. While he has not yet become a starting running back, his ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game makes him a valuable asset for the Panthers.
Raheem Blackshear’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Raheem Blackshear’s net worth is estimated to be between $2.5 and $2.7 million.
Contract
Blackshear signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers in April 2025. The deal is worth $1,100,000 and includes no guaranteed money. He has previously signed similar short-term contracts with the Panthers, reflecting his role as a backup and special teams contributor. Blackshear will become an unrestricted free agent in 2026 if he does not sign another contract with the team.
Salary
For the 2025 NFL season, Raheem Blackshear will earn a base salary of $1,100,000. This is a slight increase from his previous contract, which paid him $985,000 in 2024. His salary reflects his value as a versatile player who can contribute both on offense and special teams.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Base Salary | Signing Bonus | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Buffalo Bills | $23,000 | $15,000 | $664,666* |
| 2023 | Panthers | $870,000 | – | $870,000 |
| 2024 | Panthers | $985,000 | – | $985,000 |
| 2025 | Panthers | $1,100,000 | – | $1,100,000 |
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games Played | Rushing Attempts | Rushing Yards | Rushing TDs | Receptions | Receiving Yards | Receiving TDs | Punt Returns | Punt Return Yards | Kick Returns | Kick Return Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Panthers | 13 | 23 | 77 | 3 | 10 | 93 | 0 | 6 | 55 | 19 | 513 |
| 2023 | Panthers | 12 | 14 | 46 | 0 | 6 | 45 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 16 | 430 |
| 2024 | Panthers | 16 | 15 | 80 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 17 | 145 | 31 | 791 |
| Career | 41 | 52 | 203 | 3 | 16 | 138 | 0 | 23 | 200 | 66 | 1,734 |
FAQs
1. What position does Raheem Blackshear play in the NFL?
Raheem Blackshear plays as a running back and return specialist for the Carolina Panthers. He is known for his versatility, contributing both on offense and special teams as a kick and punt returner.
2. What is Raheem Blackshear’s net worth?
Raheem Blackshear’s net worth is estimated to be between $2.5 and $2.7 million. This includes his NFL salary, bonuses, and other career earnings since turning professional.
3. How much is Raheem Blackshear’s salary for the 2025 NFL season?
Raheem Blackshear will earn a base salary of $1,100,000 for the 2025 NFL season with the Carolina Panthers. This reflects his role as a backup running back and special teams contributor.
4. What teams has Raheem Blackshear played for in the NFL?
Raheem Blackshear began his NFL career with the Buffalo Bills but was waived before the regular season. He was then signed by the Carolina Panthers, where he has played since September 2022.
5. What are Raheem Blackshear’s career highlights in college football?
Raheem Blackshear played college football at Rutgers and Virginia Tech. He was known for his receiving ability out of the backfield, with a standout 44-catch season at Rutgers and strong performances at Virginia Tech as both a runner and receiver.
