Cody Barton Bio
Cody Likeke Barton, born on November 13, 1996, is an American professional football linebacker for the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League (NFL). Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing approximately 240 pounds, he plays the linebacker position and has been active in the NFL since 2019. Barton is recognized for his special teams contributions, defensive versatility, and his journey through multiple franchises before settling with Tennessee.
A graduate of Brighton High School and the University of Utah, Barton entered the league as a third-round draft pick. Over the course of his professional career, he has played for the Seattle Seahawks, the Washington Commanders, the Denver Broncos, and the Tennessee Titans. Known for his tackling ability and football intelligence, he has steadily developed into a reliable defensive contributor at the professional level.
Early Life and Background
Cody Likeke Barton was born on November 13, 1996, in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he was raised in a family with deep ties to athletics. He grew up in a competitive sporting environment that shaped his early interest in football and helped him develop a strong athletic foundation. His exposure to organized sports at a young age played a key role in his development as a future professional athlete.
Barton attended Brighton High School in Cottonwood Heights, Utah, where he played high school football and earned recognition as a promising linebacker prospect. His performances on the gridiron attracted attention from college programs, and he ultimately chose to continue his football career at the University of Utah. The decision allowed him to stay close to home while pursuing a higher level of competition.
Path to American Football
At the University of Utah, Barton competed for the Utah Utes football program, where he steadily progressed through the depth chart and became a key contributor on defense. He developed his skills as a linebacker under the guidance of the Utes coaching staff, working on his tackling, coverage, and field awareness. His college career helped him refine the physical and mental aspects of the position.
Following his time at Utah, Barton declared for the 2019 NFL Draft, where his college production and athletic profile made him an appealing prospect for professional teams. His combination of size, speed, and instincts at the linebacker position led to his selection in the third round. This moment marked the official beginning of his journey to the National Football League.
Cody Barton Career
Early Career (2019–2020)
Cody Likeke Barton was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round, 88th overall, of the 2019 NFL Draft. He made his professional debut in Week 3 of the 2019 season, recording his first takeaway by recovering a muffed punt from New Orleans Saints returner Deonte Harris. During his rookie season, Barton spent the majority of his time on Seattle’s special teams units and led the team in special teams snaps, demonstrating his value beyond traditional defensive duties.
In the 2020 season, Barton transitioned into a larger role and became a starting linebacker for the Seahawks. His expanded responsibilities allowed him to showcase his defensive skills, including his ability to read plays and contribute in both run defense and pass coverage. This period of growth helped establish him as a dependable defensive player in the league.
Seattle Seahawks (2019–2022)
Barton spent his first four professional seasons with the Seattle Seahawks after being drafted in 2019. His time in Seattle included significant contributions on special teams during his rookie year, where he led the team in special teams snaps. By his second season, he had earned a starting linebacker role, allowing him to develop his defensive game and gain valuable experience in regular NFL action.
Throughout his tenure with the Seahawks, Barton continued to grow as a defender, contributing in tackles and coverage assignments. His work ethic and football IQ earned him a steady role within the defensive rotation, and he became known for his reliability and team-first approach. By the end of his time in Seattle, he had established himself as a respected linebacker at the professional level.
Washington Commanders (2023)
On March 16, 2023, Barton signed a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders, marking his first move outside of Seattle. His single season in Washington provided him with a fresh opportunity to contribute on defense and special teams in a new environment. Early in the year, he was active in the defensive rotation and continued to demonstrate his tackling ability.
However, his season was interrupted in Week 7 when he suffered a high ankle sprain, leading to his placement on injured reserve on October 28, 2023. After a period of recovery, the Commanders reactivated Barton on November 22, allowing him to return to the field for the latter portion of the campaign. His perseverance through injury highlighted his dedication to the game.
Denver Broncos (2024)
On March 18, 2024, Barton signed a one-year, 3.5 million dollar contract with the Denver Broncos, seeking a fresh start with a new franchise. His season in Denver included several memorable moments, particularly during a Week 7 victory over the New Orleans Saints on October 17, 2024. In that game, he scored his first career touchdown on a 52-yard fumble return, showcasing his athleticism and instincts.
During the same contest against New Orleans, Barton recorded eight tackles, a pass deflection, and a strip sack, delivering one of the most complete performances of his career. His outstanding play earned him the AFC Defensive Player of the Week award, recognizing his impact on the defensive side of the ball. His time in Denver demonstrated his ability to produce highlight-reel moments when given the opportunity.
Tennessee Titans Era (2025–Present)
On March 13, 2025, Barton signed a three-year, 21 million dollar contract with the Tennessee Titans, signaling a new chapter in his professional career. The move to Tennessee reflects his continued value as a starting-caliber linebacker and special teams contributor. Joining the Titans provided him with the opportunity to take on a meaningful defensive role within a franchise undergoing change.
As Barton transitions into the Titans organization, he brings with him years of experience across multiple defensive schemes and special teams units. His versatility, leadership, and proven track record position him as a key piece of the team’s defensive plans. The 2025 season represents a significant opportunity for him to contribute consistently on both defense and special teams.
Driving Style and Strengths
Although football terminology differs from motorsports, Barton is recognized for his physical tackling ability, sideline-to-sideline range, and strong football intelligence. His strengths include reading offensive plays, contributing in run support, and excelling on special teams coverage units. He has consistently demonstrated leadership, durability, and the ability to adapt to different defensive schemes throughout his career.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of the most memorable moments of Cody Likeke Barton’s career came on October 17, 2024, when he scored his first career touchdown on a 52-yard fumble return against the New Orleans Saints. That same game saw him record eight tackles, a pass deflection, and a strip sack, earning him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Additionally, being drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft remains a defining milestone in his football journey.
Cody Barton Career Wins
Throughout his NFL career, Cody Likeke Barton has contributed to team victories across multiple franchises, with his most notable performances coming during the 2024 season with the Denver Broncos. His Week 7 standout game against the New Orleans Saints stands as one of the defining moments of his career, highlighted by his first career touchdown and multiple defensive plays. Barton’s consistent play on defense and special teams has helped his teams secure important wins throughout his career.
Denver Broncos Highlights
During the 2024 season, Barton delivered one of his most impactful performances in a Week 7 victory over the New Orleans Saints, where he scored his first career touchdown on a 52-yard fumble return. In the same contest, he tallied eight tackles, a pass deflection, and a strip sack, earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week recognition. His contributions in Denver helped solidify his reputation as a playmaker on defense.
Other Wins and Performances
Across his time with the Seattle Seahawks, Washington Commanders, Denver Broncos, and Tennessee Titans, Barton has consistently contributed as both a linebacker and a special teams player. His ability to perform in multiple roles has been a hallmark of his professional career, allowing him to remain a valuable asset regardless of the team or scheme.
Cody Barton Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Cody Likeke Barton comes from a family with a strong athletic heritage, particularly within football and other competitive sports. His family’s background in athletics has played an important role in shaping his competitive drive and commitment to excellence on the field.
Personal Life
Barton’s older brother, Jackson Barton, was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the seventh round of the 2019 NFL Draft as an offensive tackle and is currently a free agent. The two brothers played in the same class at Utah after Jackson redshirted, sharing the experience of college football together. His younger brother, Lander Barton, is also a linebacker and currently plays college football for Utah, continuing the family’s football tradition. Additionally, his sister, Dani Barton, is a member of the United States women’s national volleyball team, further highlighting the family’s deep involvement in competitive sports.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 NFL season marks Cody Likeke Barton’s first year with the Tennessee Titans after signing a three-year, 21 million dollar contract on March 13, 2025. Joining a franchise in transition, Barton is expected to play a meaningful role in the Titans’ defensive scheme and special teams units. His experience across multiple teams and schemes makes him a valuable veteran presence in the locker room.
As the season progresses, Barton aims to build on the momentum generated during his 2024 campaign with the Denver Broncos, where he earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. His ability to contribute as a tackler, playmaker, and special teams asset positions him well for a productive year in Tennessee. With the Titans seeking to develop a competitive roster, Barton’s leadership and versatility will be key factors in the team’s outlook.