Even though offensive tackle Nick Samac was the only member of Michigan State football’s roster from the previous season to be taken in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Spartans still have a number of athletes that are receiving opportunities to play at the next level.
Former Spartan linebacker Jacoby Windmon is one of them.
Windmon played his final two collegiate seasons at Michigan State after transferring from UNLV. Last season, the prospect unfortunately only started the first three games of the Spartans’ season before going down with an injury that had him sit the rest of the year.
The season prior, his first as a Spartan, Windmon made six starts at defensive end and two at linebacker. He led the nation with six forced fumbles, tying the second-most in a single season in program history. Windmon finished the season with 49 tackles, 10.5 for loss, 5.5 sacks and an interception.
Windmon spent three seasons at UNLV. He played in all 12 games as a freshman, earning 12 tackles, one for a loss and a pass breakup. The following season (2020), Windmon was named an All-Mountain West honorable mention, having recorded 39 tackles, five sacks, two pass breakups and a forced fumble.
In his final season with the Rebels, Windmon totaled 119 tackles, which ranked 13th in the nation.
Windmon was one of 10 Spartans from last year’s roster to participate in Michigan State’s 2024 Pro Day.
“(The scouts) put me at outside linebacker, which is kind of a combination of both (linebacker and defensive end),” Windmon said. “I’m able to show my versatility – I’m able to rush the passer, and I’m able to drop in coverage when I need to be and it kind of helps with timing.
“I anticipate having a fantastic opportunity to pursue my passions. There is just one team that you have. The results I received today make me feel like I put myself in a very good spot, but I am also grateful for my family and applaud God for putting me in this situation.
