Joshua Payne Scobey (born December 11, 1979) is an American former professional football running back and kick returner who played seven seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Kansas State and was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the sixth round of the 2002 NFL draft.

Early life

At Del City High School, Scobey finished with the best single season rushing total in Del City High School history, with 1,829 yards (1997). He rushed for 3,303 total rushing yards, trailing only Bennie Butler (University of Oklahoma) in career rushing yards. He also finished only behind Butler in total rushing and receiving yards with 3,408.

College career

Scobey attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, Oklahoma. He then transferred to Kansas State University, where he started at running back and set a school record for rushing touchdowns.

Professional career

Scobey's NFL career began when he was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2002 NFL draft. In 2003, Scobey led the National Football League in kick-off return yardage and was allowed to be voted for the Pro Bowl. He played for the Cardinals for three seasons before moving to the Seahawks. In Seattle, he earned an NFC championship ring and he was the Seahawks' kickoff returner in Super Bowl XL against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and served as a team captain for the game and coin toss. On May 3, 2007, Scobey signed with the Buffalo Bills, but he re-signed with the Seahawks on December 4, exactly one year after he was placed on injured reserve by the Seahawks in 2006.

Post-playing career

On June 25, 2022, Scobey was promoted to the director of college scouting by the Arizona Cardinals. On May 4, 2024, Scobey and the Cardinals organization parted ways.

Personal life

Scobey is a Buddhist. He practices Nichiren Buddhism through the Soka Gakkai International, and has been a practicing Buddhist since he was five years old.