Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker prospect Jacoby Windmon was signed off the practice squad by the Carolina Panthers on October 15, according to NFL insider Aaron Wilson of KPRC2.
Windmon spent the entire summer with the Steelers after joining the organization as an undrafted rookie from Michigan State. He had only signed to Pittsburgh’s practice squad on October 2, just a couple of weeks prior.
At 23 years old, Windmon showed versatility and promise. Steelers Depot writer Ross McCorkle noted that while he “primarily” played inside linebacker during the preseason, he also took snaps at outside linebacker and contributed on special teams.
His best preseason performance came in the first game, according to Pro Football Focus, where he earned a 90.0 grade—ranking him among the top 10 UDFA rookies across the league.
Windmon wrapped up the preseason with 7 solo tackles, 4 assisted tackles, and 3 key defensive stops. However, he was also credited with 4 missed tackles and allowed 1 reception for 9 yards.
Overall, Windmon performed well, especially in coverage. Despite not making the initial practice squad, he stayed on the radar of general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike Tomlin.
However, his return to the Steelers was brief, leaving the team with a vacancy on their 16-man practice squad.
Steelers May Replace Jacoby Windmon With LB Ade Ogundeji
Just days after adding outside linebacker Adetokunbo “Ade” Ogundeji to the 53-man roster before Week 6, the Steelers released him on October 14.
Despite the cut, Pittsburgh beat reporter Mark Kaboly suggested Ogundeji would “likely” return on a practice squad deal. Windmon’s exit potentially opens up a linebacker spot for him.
Before Week 6, Ogundeji spoke about staying ready for his next NFL opportunity, noting the valuable perspective he gained watching others play. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said, adding, “I’m gonna bring it all and do my best to help the team win.”
Ogundeji earned a 63.8 grade from Pro Football Focus for his 16 defensive snaps against the Las Vegas Raiders. Used primarily in pass-rushing situations, he registered 2 quarterback hurries but no tackles. He didn’t see action on special teams.
As of October 15, the Steelers had not announced any new roster moves.
Steelers HC Mike Tomlin Rules Out 2 Players vs. Jets
On Tuesday, October 15, head coach Mike Tomlin ruled out two players for Week 7 against the New York Jets: rookie center Zach Frazier (ankle) and outside linebacker Nick Herbig (hamstring).
Tomlin described Frazier as “week-to-week,” echoing the October 14 injury update from Fox Sports NFL insider Jordan Schultz.
On the upside, Tomlin expressed optimism about outside linebacker Alex Highsmith’s (groin) return in Week 7. He also said the availability of running back/returner Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle), safety Damontae Kazee (ankle), and tight end MyCole Pruitt (knee) would be determined by their participation in practice.
With Frazier sidelined, veteran Ryan McCollum is expected to start at center as the Steelers continue to adapt to injuries along the offensive line.
