Brief Introduction of Yahya Black
Yahya Black is an American professional football player who currently plays as a defensive end for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL). Born and raised in Marshall, Minnesota, Black established himself as a formidable defensive force from a young age. His impressive high school career led him to play college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes, where he became a key player on their renowned defense. Known for his immense size, strength, and athleticism, Black was a consistent disruptor on the defensive line throughout his collegiate career. His dedication and performance at Iowa culminated in him being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. As a rising talent in professional football, Yahya Black’s journey is one of perseverance and a testament to his powerful presence on the field.
Yahya Black Overview
| Full Name | Yahya Black |
| Date of Birth | April 21, 2002 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 23 |
| Birthplace | Marshall, Minnesota |
| Profession | Professional Football Player (Defensive End) |
| Husband/Wife | Hailiy Okins |
| Family | Parents – Wendy and Richard Black |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Married to Hailiy Okins |
| Net Worth | Not publicly available |
Early Life and Education of Yahya Black
Yahya Black was born on April 21, 2002, in Marshall, Minnesota, to his parents, Wendy and Richard Black. Growing up in his hometown, he attended Marshall High School, where he laid the foundation for his football career. At Marshall High, Black was a multi-sport athlete, lettering in football, track, and basketball, showcasing his versatile athletic abilities. On the football field, he was a dominant force, playing both defensive end and tackle. His performance earned him significant recognition; he was named the district Defensive Lineman of the Year as a junior and followed that up with an even more impressive senior year, earning all-state honors and being named the district Defensive Player of the Year. Black set a school record for career sacks with 17.5 and served as a team captain during his senior year. His leadership and on-field excellence helped his team reach the state playoffs in his sophomore and junior years. Regarded as a three-star recruit, his potential was evident to college scouts across the nation. After a successful high school career, Black committed to continue his academic and athletic journey at the University of Iowa, majoring in education studies and human relations.
Yahya Black’s Career
Yahya Black’s football career has been marked by a steady progression from a promising high school athlete to a professional in the NFL. After committing to the University of Iowa, he joined the Hawkeyes in 2020. In his freshman year, he saw action in four games, recording three tackles. He became a more integral part of the defense in the 2021 season, playing in all 14 games and tallying 18 tackles, two pass deflections, and a forced fumble. His sophomore season in 2022 saw him play in eight games, where he recorded 11 tackles, one and a half tackles for a loss, and his first collegiate sack. The 2023 season was a breakout year for Black, as he started all 14 games for the Hawkeyes. He amassed 51 tackles, five tackles for a loss, three and a half sacks, and five pass deflections, earning him an Honorable Mention All-Big Ten selection from both the coaches and the media. His impressive performance continued into his senior year in 2024, where he once again started all 13 games. In his final season as a Hawkeye, he recorded 34 tackles, seven tackles for a loss, a sack, two pass breakups, and a blocked field goal. His consistent play and leadership on the field earned him another Honorable Mention All-Big Ten honor. Following his successful collegiate career, Yahya Black declared for the NFL Draft. He was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fifth round as the 164th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Joining the professional ranks, Black looks to bring his size, strength, and work ethic to the Steelers’ defensive line.
Yahya Black Personal Life & Family
Yahya Black was raised by his parents, Wendy and Richard Black. His mother, Wendy Black, is a hospice nurse and a Registered Polysomnographic Technologist, specializing in sleep studies. His father, Richard Black, attended Wp Davidson High School. Yahya also has a younger sister. On November 11, 2025, Yahya Black married his longtime girlfriend, Hailiy Okins. The couple had been dating since October 2020 and got engaged on June 29, 2025. Hailiy is originally from Franklin, Minnesota, and attended Redwood Valley Senior High. She pursued a degree in Paramedicine at Ridgewater College and works as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) at North Memorial Health. The couple resides in Iowa City, Iowa, where Hailiy works. They are also proud dog owners. Black is known to be a private individual, with his relationship with Okins remaining largely out of the public eye until their engagement and marriage.
Awards and Achievements of Yahya Black
- Honorable Mention All-Big Ten by league coaches and media (2023).
- Phil Steele third-team All-Big Ten (2023).
- Coaches Appreciation Award, defense (2023).
- Honorable Mention All-Big Ten by league coaches and media (2024).
- Phil Steele fourth-team All-Big Ten (2024).
- Hayden Fry Award, defense (2024).
- Named to the 2024 Player Council as one of eight seniors.
- All-state honors as a high school senior.
- District Defensive Player of the Year as a high school senior.
- District Defensive Lineman of the Year as a high school junior.
Yahya Black Net Worth and Income
Information regarding Yahya Black’s net worth and income is not publicly available. As a recent draftee into the NFL, his earnings will primarily come from his contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Specific details of his rookie contract are not widely publicized.
Legacy and Influence
While still early in his professional career, Yahya Black’s legacy is already taking shape. At the collegiate level, he was a key contributor to the Iowa Hawkeyes’ formidable defense, known for its discipline and physicality. His development from a rotational player to a two-year starter and an All-Big Ten honorable mention speaks to his work ethic and dedication. He has been described as a leader who grew more vocal and comfortable in his role over time. His impact at Iowa was not always reflected in the stat sheet, as he was often tasked with absorbing blocks to free up his teammates to make plays, a crucial but often unheralded role on the defensive line. As he transitions to the NFL, he has the opportunity to build a legacy as a reliable and powerful defensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers. His journey from a small town in Minnesota to the highest level of professional football serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in his community.
Interesting Facts about Yahya Black
- Yahya Black was a multi-sport athlete in high school, lettering in football, track, and basketball for three years.
- He set a school record at Marshall High School for career sacks with 17.5.
- His pre-game ritual involves listening to the music of Adele, which he says helps to calm him before the intensity of a football game.
- The pronunciation of his first name is “WHY-yay”.
- During his first couple of years at Iowa, he had to line up against All-American center Tyler Linderbaum in practice, an experience he credits with making him a better player.
- His first impression of Pittsburgh was the beautiful view of the city as you exit the Fort Pitt Tunnel.
Controversies
There are no publicly known controversies involving Yahya Black.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – _y_a_94
- Twitter – @Yblack74
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Final Words about Yahya Black
Yahya Black’s journey to the NFL is a story of consistent growth and quiet determination. From his record-setting days at Marshall High School to becoming a cornerstone of the Iowa Hawkeyes’ defense, he has continuously elevated his game. Now, as a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, he is poised to take the next step in his professional career. Known for his immense physical presence and team-first mentality, Black has the tools and the mindset to carve out a successful career in the league. While his professional story is just beginning, his foundation of hard work, leadership, and on-field impact suggests a promising future. Off the field, his recent marriage to Hailiy Okins marks a new chapter in his personal life, providing a strong support system as he navigates the challenges of the NFL. Yahya Black’s career will be one to watch as he brings his brand of powerful and dedicated football to the professional stage.
