Steelers Bring Back A Familiar Face: LB Jacoby Windmon

The Pittsburgh Steelers have once again turned to a familiar name to strengthen their linebacker depth. They have re-signed Jacoby Windman to the practice squad, marking the second stint of the young defender. This move reflected the team’s preference for players who understand the demanding defensive culture. 

The return of Windmon comes after the Las Vegas Raiders signed linebacker Jon Rhattigan off Pittsburgh’s practice squad. That change left a gap that needed to be filled. Instead of searching further, the Steelers brought back a player who had proven his adaptability before: Windmon has impressed coaches with his speed, work ethic, and willingness to learn multiple roles, which aligns with the Steelers’ identity. According to Mike Tomlin, Windmon’s readiness outweighs the excitement of a new face. 

However, Windmon’s path to the NFL was anything but smooth. Although he gained attention for his consistent tackling and big-play instinct, like many undrafted players, he needed to earn his opportunities through hard work and persistence. As news of his signing broke, many Steelers fans took to forums and betting sites to speculate about how this move could affect the team’s defensive strength in the coming weeks. Some supporters who wager on team performances through anonymous sportsbooks viewed Windmon’s return as a smart move that could pay off. 

After training camp, Windmon stayed ready and waited for his next shot. When Rhattigan left for Las Vegas, he was quickly rehired. The Steelers’ front office prioritized someone who could step in immediately, and Windmon was an obvious choice. The team’s linebacker depth took a hit early in the season with injuries and roster changes, so his arrival brought stability at just the right time.

While Windmon is not expected to start right away, he brings valuable depth and special-teams ability behind Patrick Queen, Payton Wilson, and Cole Holcomb. His versatility gives defensive coordinator Teryl Austin more flexibility to create defensive packages that rely on fast and smart linebackers, who can shift between coverage and pass-rushing roles. 

Even though practice-squad signings don’t usually get much attention, history has shown that they can turn into major success stories. For example, former outside linebacker James Harrison followed a similar path, rising from the practice squad to a significant starting contributor. Similarly, Windmon has it all: the combination of athleticism, tackling consistency, and quick learning, which could put him on a similar path.

This move also shows how tightly contested the AFC North has become this season. From the Steelers to the Ravens, Bengals, and Browns, every team is battling fiercely in a tense early-season clash for supremacy.

Steelers' Windmon Gets Another Chance

This signing is a second chance for Windmon, and probably the most important one in his professional career. For instance, only a few players get multiple opportunities with the same franchise, especially in such a competitive system. His familiarity with Tomlin’s expectations and the team’s defensive schemes could help him transition quickly from practice squad contributor to potential in-game reinforcement if the opportunity arises.

In general, the Steelers have a long tradition of discovering hidden talent and developing players who achieve exceptional results under pressure. For example, Windmon’s college film showed flashes of instinct and aggression that Pittsburgh fosters. These traits don’t always show up in a scouting report, but become invaluable in the NFL trenches. With his understanding of the playbook and willingness to put in the work, his second stay in the team could be more impactful than his first.

As the season continues, it’s important to keep an eye on Windmon’s progress. Whether he remains a depth option or earns promotion to the active roster, his presence shows the Steelers’ commitment to remaining prepared. It also shows the team spirit, as every player in Tomlin’s team, even on the practice squad, must be ready to step up when called upon. So far, Windmon has shown he could do that. 

Finally, his return might not dominate national headlines. But, within the Steelers, it shows the real values of the team: loyalty, trust, and a belief in those who have proven they belong. Jacoby Windmon’s second chance in Pittsburgh is another example of how the Steelers continue to value persistence, familiarity, and the kind of work ethic that turns opportunity into achievement.