Jacoby Windmon Bio
Jacoby “Coby” Tyrion Windmon, born on August 20, 2001, in Marrero, Louisiana, is an American professional football linebacker currently playing in the National Football League (NFL). Standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 248 pounds, he is recognized for his hard-hitting play and nicknamed “The Windbreaker.” Windmon is currently a member of the Carolina Panthers, having previously spent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is listed at 188 centimeters in height and 113 kilograms in weight.
Early Life and Background
Jacoby Tyrion Windmon grew up in the New Orleans, Louisiana area and attended John Ehret High School, where he developed his passion for football. Coming out of high school, he was rated as a three-star recruit and received scholarship offers from several programs, including South Alabama and Tulane. After careful consideration, he chose to commit to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) to begin his collegiate career.
At UNLV, Windmon originally expected to play tight end after enrolling early but was quickly moved to defensive end, a transition that would shape his future in the sport. His physical attributes and work ethic made him a natural fit on the defensive side of the ball, and he contributed immediately as a freshman, playing in all 12 games for the Rebels.
Path to American Football
Windmon’s path to professional football began in earnest at UNLV, where he steadily developed into one of the team’s most reliable defenders. As a sophomore, he earned honorable mention All-Mountain West Conference recognition after posting 39 tackles, two passes broken up, and one forced fumble. These numbers demonstrated his growing ability to disrupt opposing offenses and set the stage for a breakout junior season.
During his junior year, Windmon became the heart of the UNLV defense, leading the team with 118 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. His performance earned him second-team All-Mountain West honors and caught the attention of NFL scouts. Following the season, he entered the NCAA transfer portal, eventually landing at Michigan State, where he was immediately named a starter at defensive end.
Jacoby Windmon Career
Early Career (2021-2022)
Jacoby Tyrion Windmon’s early college years at UNLV were marked by steady progression and growing responsibility. After transitioning from tight end to defensive end, he quickly adapted to his new role and became a rotational player as a freshman. By his sophomore season, his production had increased significantly, earning him honorable mention All-Mountain West Conference recognition.
This period was crucial for his development, as he learned the nuances of pass rushing, run defense, and reading offensive schemes. The experience he gained playing in all 12 games during his freshman year laid the foundation for the statistical leap he would make the following season.
UNLV Breakthrough (2021-2023)
Windmon’s true breakthrough came during his junior season at UNLV, when he became the team’s leading tackler. He finished the year with 118 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks, earning second-team All-Mountain West Conference honors. These numbers placed him among the top defenders in the conference and solidified his reputation as a fierce competitor.
After his dominant junior campaign, Windmon entered the transfer portal for the first time, eventually committing to Michigan State. There, he was named a starter at defensive end entering his first season with the Spartans, marking another significant step in his journey toward the NFL.
Michigan State Era (2022-2023)
At Michigan State, Jacoby Tyrion Windmon joined a Big Ten program with a rich football tradition. He was named a starter at defensive end and brought his tackling prowess from UNLV to the Spartans’ defensive scheme. His experience in the Mountain West Conference translated well to the higher level of competition in the Big Ten.
On December 11, 2023, Windmon announced that he would be entering the transfer portal for the second time. However, on January 4, 2024, he reversed course and declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, deciding that his collegiate career had prepared him sufficiently for the professional ranks.
Pittsburgh Steelers (2024)
Jacoby Tyrion Windmon signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent on April 27, 2024, shortly after the conclusion of the draft. Despite his impressive college resume, he was waived on August 27 as part of final roster cuts. He did not stay away long, however, as the Steelers signed him to their practice squad on October 2.
His time on the Pittsburgh practice squad was brief but valuable, as he continued to refine his skills and adapt to the pace and complexity of the NFL game. This developmental period prepared him for his next opportunity.
Carolina Panthers Era (2024-Present)
On October 15, 2024, Windmon was signed off the Steelers practice squad to the Carolina Panthers active roster. He was released on November 5 but re-signed to the practice squad three days later, demonstrating the organization’s continued interest in his development. On December 17, 2024, he was promoted back to the active roster, where he remained through the end of the season.
Windmon’s path with the Panthers included additional movement, as he was waived on August 25, 2025, and later re-signed to the team’s practice squad on November 19, 2025. He also had a brief return to the Steelers practice squad in October 2025 before rejoining Carolina. His resilience and adaptability have been hallmarks of his young professional career.
Jacoby Windmon Personal Life
Family Background and Personal Details
Jacoby Tyrion Windmon was born and raised in the greater New Orleans area, specifically in Marrero, Louisiana. He attended John Ehret High School, where he first began to make a name for himself as a football prospect. The nickname “The Windbreaker” reflects his aggressive, disruptive style of play on the field.
2025 Season Performance
Jacoby Tyrion Windmon’s 2025 season has been defined by movement between rosters as he continues to establish himself in the NFL. After being waived by the Carolina Panthers on August 25, 2025, he had a brief stint on the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad from October 8 to October 28, 2025, before being released. The Panthers then signed him back to their practice squad on November 19, 2025, signaling their continued interest in his development.
Throughout the 2025 season, Windmon has demonstrated the resilience and patience required of young players navigating the bottom of NFL rosters. His ability to bounce back between practice squad promotions and releases speaks to his work ethic and the demand for his skill set as a tackling linebacker.
As the 2025 season progresses, Windmon’s focus remains on earning a stable role on an active NFL roster. His experience in multiple defensive systems at UNLV, Michigan State, and in the NFL has given him a versatile skill set that could serve him well as he continues to chase his goals in professional football.