Last Updated on October 23, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova
Josh Fryar is an American football offensive tackle who plays for the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. Before beginning his professional career, he played college football at Ohio State University, where he helped the Buckeyes win the national championship following the 2024 season. Beyond football, fans are interested in learning about Josh Fryar’s family, girlfriend, children, parents and siblings.
Born on February 12, 2002, in Beech Grove, Indiana, Fryar grew up in a family with strong connections to American football. His parents are Jeff and Jamie Fryar, and his older brother is Jacob Fryar, who also played college football.
His father played football at Indiana University before becoming a high school coach, while his mother worked as a nurse and supported both sons throughout their athletic development.
In March 2021, a local newspaper identified Karli Aldrich as Josh Fryar’s girlfriend. However, his current relationship status has not been independently confirmed.
Josh Fryar’s Girlfriend: Who Is Karli Aldrich?
Karli Aldrich was publicly identified as Josh Fryar’s girlfriend in March 2021.
The information appeared in The Southsider Voice, a newspaper covering the Indianapolis area, including Fryar’s hometown of Beech Grove.
In an article published on March 3, 2021, journalist Al Stilley reported that Fryar returned to Beech Grove High School to receive recognition for his athletic achievements.
Karli attended the ceremony alongside Fryar’s mother, Jamie, and older brother, Jacob.
The newspaper identified Aldrich as Fryar’s girlfriend in its photograph caption and accompanying report.
The ceremony celebrated Fryar’s selection as the Marion County Male Athlete of the Year and recognized his accomplishments as a high school football player.
Are Josh Fryar and Karli Aldrich Still Together?
It has not been independently confirmed whether Josh Fryar and Karli Aldrich are still together.
Although their relationship was documented in March 2021, reliable recent reporting does not establish whether the couple continued dating after Fryar’s college career.
During a 2024 Ohio State press conference, Fryar also referred to a girlfriend while discussing criticism directed at football players and their families on social media.
However, he did not identify the girlfriend by name in the available transcript.
Consequently, the comment cannot establish that Karli Aldrich remained his partner at that time.
As of now, Karli is best described as Fryar’s previously reported girlfriend rather than his confirmed current partner.
Is Josh Fryar Married?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Josh Fryar is married.
The Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle has not made a verified public wedding announcement, and official NFL and Ohio State biographies do not identify a wife.
There is also no widely documented announcement confirming an engagement.
As of now, Fryar’s marital status remains publicly unconfirmed.
Does Josh Fryar Have Children?
Josh Fryar has no publicly confirmed children.
The NFL offensive tackle has not made a verified public announcement identifying a son or daughter.
His official biographies and established family interviews primarily discuss his parents, brother, football upbringing and athletic achievements.
As of now, there is no reliable information confirming that Fryar is a father.
However, the absence of public reporting should not be interpreted as definitive proof that he has no children. It means that parenthood has not been established through trustworthy sources.
Josh Fryar’s Parents: Meet Jeff and Jamie Fryar
Josh Fryar’s parents are Jeff Fryar and Jamie Fryar.
Ohio State University’s official football biography confirms both names.
The couple raised Josh and his older brother, Jacob, in Indiana, where football became an important part of family life.
Jeff introduced his sons to the sport and helped coach them, while Jamie supported their education, athletic activities and personal development.
Their experiences were explored in a detailed September 2023 family interview published by The Columbus Dispatch.
Josh Fryar’s Father: Jeff Fryar
Jeff Fryar is Josh Fryar’s father and a former Indiana University football player.
Jeff played tight end for the Indiana Hoosiers from 1984 through 1988 under head coach Bill Mallory.
During his college career, Indiana recorded memorable victories over Ohio State in consecutive seasons in 1987 and 1988.
Those achievements became part of the family’s football history, particularly because Josh eventually decided to play for Ohio State.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, Jeff later became involved in coaching youth and high school football.
He began coaching Josh when his son played flag football as a young child.
Jeff subsequently served as an offensive line coach at Beech Grove High School, where Josh developed into one of Indiana’s leading football prospects.
How Jeff Fryar Influenced His Son’s Football Career
Jeff’s experience as a college football player helped Josh understand the demands of competitive football from an early age.
He taught his son blocking techniques, preparation and the importance of teamwork.
As Josh became older, Jeff continued providing coaching and advice.
One particularly memorable moment occurred in November 2022, when Ohio State faced Indiana University.
With starting offensive tackle Dawand Jones unavailable, Josh made his first collegiate start against his father’s former university.
After the game, Fryar discussed the significance of competing against Indiana, acknowledging his father’s strong connections to the Hoosiers.
The experience also demonstrated how far Josh had progressed since his early football lessons with Jeff.
Josh Fryar’s Father and His Health Challenges
In September 2023, the Fryar family publicly discussed Jeff’s neurological difficulties in an interview with The Columbus Dispatch.
Jeff explained that he had experienced memory and cognitive problems that the family believed were connected to his football career.
The family expressed concerns about chronic traumatic encephalopathy, commonly known as CTE.
However, the report acknowledged that CTE cannot be definitively diagnosed in a living person using currently established diagnostic standards.
Therefore, Jeff’s concerns should not be presented as a confirmed CTE diagnosis.
He explained that his symptoms had affected his professional life and ability to attend certain football games.
After previously working in human resources, he began working as a substitute teacher at Beech Grove High School.
Josh decided to discuss his father’s experiences publicly to raise awareness about the potential long-term effects of repetitive head impacts in football.
How Jeff Fryar’s Experiences Shaped Josh’s Perspective
Although his father’s health difficulties affected the family, Josh continued pursuing professional football.
During the 2023 interview, he explained that he understood the risks associated with the sport but also appreciated the opportunities football created.
He had witnessed how the game provided his father with friendships, coaching opportunities and meaningful relationships.
Josh also believed that reaching the NFL could help him support his family financially.
His father’s experience encouraged him to approach football with a greater appreciation for both its benefits and its possible consequences.
Josh Fryar’s Mother: Jamie Fryar
Jamie Fryar is Josh Fryar’s mother and one of the most influential people in his life.
Her identity is confirmed by Ohio State University’s official football biography.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, Jamie worked as a nurse and helped care for her husband while raising their sons.
She was also actively involved in Josh’s football development.
When he began playing flag football, Jamie helped coach his team.
As Josh and Jacob grew older, she continued watching games, evaluating their performances and offering feedback.
The family eventually purchased a projector so they could review football footage together.
Her involvement reflected the shared enthusiasm for football within the Fryar household.
Why Josh Fryar Calls His Mother His Rock
During his September 2023 interview with The Columbus Dispatch, Josh described his mother as a dependable source of encouragement during difficult circumstances.
He explained that Jamie was someone he could approach whenever he needed support.
Her role became especially important when the family experienced challenges connected to Jeff’s health.
Jamie helped manage family responsibilities while continuing her professional work.
She also regularly attended Josh’s college football games, including occasions when her husband was unable to travel.
Josh and Jeff both credited her with helping keep the family together.
Her commitment remained important as Josh pursued opportunities at Ohio State and eventually joined the NFL.
Josh Fryar’s Siblings: Meet His Older Brother Jacob Fryar
Josh Fryar has an older brother named Jacob Fryar.
Jacob’s relationship to Josh is confirmed by The Columbus Dispatch and local Indiana newspaper coverage.
Like his younger brother, Jacob grew up playing American football and benefited from their father’s coaching experience.
He eventually pursued college football at Marian University in Indianapolis.
Who Is Jacob Fryar?
Jacob Fryar is Josh Fryar’s older brother and a former Marian University offensive lineman.
Before attending Marian, Jacob played football at Roncalli High School in Indianapolis.
He was a member of Roncalli’s 2016 state championship football team.
Jacob later continued his athletic career with the Marian Knights.
According to Marian University’s official football biography, he played offensive line and wore jersey number 52.
His 2020 roster profile listed him as a redshirt junior.
The university listed him at 6 feet 2 inches tall and 280 pounds.
Although Jacob also pursued college football, he has generally maintained a lower public profile than his younger brother.
Reliable recent information about his occupation and personal activities remains limited.
Josh and Jacob Fryar’s Relationship
Josh and Jacob grew up sharing an interest in football.
Their father helped introduce both boys to the sport, while their mother participated in coaching and reviewing game footage.
In September 2023, The Columbus Dispatch reported that the brothers had experienced difficult moments while their father dealt with health challenges.
Those experiences became part of the family’s shared history.
Jacob also publicly supported Josh during his early college football career.
In February 2021, he attended a recognition ceremony at Beech Grove High School alongside their mother and Josh’s then-girlfriend.
The event honored Josh’s accomplishments before and during his transition to Ohio State.
Does Josh Fryar Have Any Other Siblings?
Jacob Fryar is Josh Fryar’s only sibling specifically identified in the available authoritative family reporting.
The September 2023 Columbus Dispatch profile discusses the family as including Josh and his older brother Jacob.
However, the report does not explicitly establish that no other siblings exist.
As of now, there is no independently confirmed information identifying additional brothers or sisters.
Josh Fryar’s Grandfather: Who Was Harry Fryar?
Another important member of Josh Fryar’s family was his grandfather, Harry Fryar.
According to a July 2019 Indianapolis Star interview, Harry served in the Korean War and returned home on July 4, 1953.
He maintained a close relationship with his grandson and enjoyed watching him play football.
Harry died in 2015 at the age of 83.
When Josh announced his commitment to Ohio State on July 4, 2019, the date held special meaning because it commemorated his grandfather’s return from military service.
Josh explained that he wanted to honor Harry’s memory through the decision.
The occasion demonstrated how his family’s history influenced important moments in his football career.
Josh Fryar’s Childhood and High School Football Career
Josh Fryar grew up in Beech Grove, Indiana, a community southeast of Indianapolis.
He developed an interest in football during elementary school and began participating in organized youth leagues.
His parents encouraged him to compete in different sports, including football, basketball and wrestling.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, he became a national champion in youth wrestling during junior high school.
He later attended Beech Grove High School, where he participated in football, basketball and track and field.
In football, Fryar became one of Indiana’s leading offensive line prospects.
He earned first-team All-Marion County recognition and was selected to participate in the All-American Bowl.
His accomplishments also included helping Beech Grove achieve success in basketball and competing in the discus at the Indiana state track and field championships.
During his senior year, Fryar received scholarship offers from major football programs, including Alabama, Indiana, Oklahoma, Penn State and Ohio State.
He ultimately committed to Ohio State on July 4, 2019.
How Josh Fryar’s Family Influenced His College Football Career
Josh Fryar joined Ohio State University in 2020.
His early college career required patience because he began as a reserve offensive lineman.
He redshirted during his freshman season before appearing in 12 games in 2021.
However, his development was interrupted when he suffered a knee injury before Ohio State’s game against Michigan.
He returned in 2022 and earned his first college start against Indiana.
The opportunity was particularly meaningful because his father had previously played for the Hoosiers.
By 2023, Fryar had established himself as Ohio State’s starting right tackle.
He started all 13 games that season and earned first-team All-Big Ten recognition from conference media.
Josh Fryar Wins a National Championship With Ohio State
Fryar returned to Ohio State for the 2024 season and continued serving as the team’s starting right tackle.
He started all 16 games as the Buckeyes advanced through the College Football Playoff.
Ohio State defeated Tennessee, Oregon and Texas before facing Notre Dame in the national championship game on January 20, 2025.
The Buckeyes won 34-23, securing the program’s first national championship since the 2014 season.
Fryar’s experience along the offensive line helped Ohio State maintain stability despite injuries to other starters.
During his final college season, he earned honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition.
He finished his Ohio State career having appeared in 54 games with 30 starts.
Fryar also completed a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences in April 2024.
Josh Fryar’s NFL Career With the Arizona Cardinals
After helping Ohio State win the national championship, Josh Fryar entered the 2025 NFL Draft.
Although he was not selected, the Arizona Cardinals signed him as an undrafted free agent.
The agreement was announced on April 28, 2025.
His arrival in Arizona reunited him with former Ohio State offensive line coach Justin Frye.
Fryar also joined an organization that included former Buckeyes offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr.
Those existing connections helped him adapt to his first professional training camp.
Josh Fryar’s Rookie Season
Fryar made his NFL regular-season debut against the New Orleans Saints on September 7, 2025.
He initially contributed as a reserve offensive lineman and on special teams.
As the season progressed, injuries created opportunities for him to play additional offensive snaps.
On December 14, 2025, Fryar made his first NFL start at left tackle against the Houston Texans.
He continued starting games during the final weeks of the season.
According to the Arizona Cardinals’ official biography, he appeared in 12 regular-season games and made five starts as a rookie.
His performances demonstrated his versatility, as he had played primarily at right tackle during his college career.
As of now, Fryar remains a member of the Arizona Cardinals’ active roster, wearing jersey number 78.
Frequently Asked Questions About Josh Fryar’s Family
Who is Josh Fryar’s girlfriend?
Karli Aldrich was publicly identified as Josh Fryar’s girlfriend in March 2021 by The Southsider Voice. However, their current relationship status has not been independently confirmed.
Are Josh Fryar and Karli Aldrich still dating?
There is no reliable recent reporting confirming whether Josh Fryar and Karli Aldrich remain together.
Is Josh Fryar married?
As of now, there is no verified public confirmation that Josh Fryar is married or has a wife.
Does Josh Fryar have children?
Josh Fryar has no publicly confirmed children. He has not made a verified announcement identifying a son or daughter.
Who is Josh Fryar’s father?
His father is Jeff Fryar, a former Indiana University football player who later coached offensive linemen at Beech Grove High School.
Who is Josh Fryar’s mother?
His mother is Jamie Fryar, a nurse who helped coach him during childhood and supported his football development.
How many siblings does Josh Fryar have?
Josh Fryar has one publicly confirmed sibling, his older brother Jacob Fryar.
Who is Jacob Fryar?
Jacob Fryar is Josh’s older brother and a former Marian University offensive lineman who attended Roncalli High School in Indianapolis.
Did Josh Fryar’s father play college football?
Yes. Jeff Fryar played football at Indiana University under head coach Bill Mallory during the 1980s.
Who was Josh Fryar’s grandfather?
His grandfather was Harry Fryar, a Korean War veteran whose memory influenced Josh’s decision to announce his Ohio State commitment on July 4, 2019.
Where is Josh Fryar from?
Josh Fryar is from Beech Grove, Indiana, where he attended Beech Grove High School.
When was Josh Fryar born?
Josh Fryar was born on February 12, 2002.
What NFL team does Josh Fryar play for?
As of now, Josh Fryar plays offensive tackle for the Arizona Cardinals, whom he joined as an undrafted free agent in 2025.
Valentim Tereshkova is a sports journalist and NFL analyst specializing in team dynamics, scheme breakdowns, and league-wide trends. Covering everything from offseason roster construction and Draft developments to Sunday game plans and Super Bowl contenders, he delivers clear, sharp commentary on the gridiron. Valentim combines stat-driven analysis with a passion for football storytelling to give readers an expert look into the AFC and NFC.
