Last Updated on October 24, 2026 by Valentim Tereshkova
Cody Simon’s family has played an important role in his journey from New Jersey to the NFL. The Arizona Cardinals linebacker grew up in an athletic household, where both of his parents participated in college sports and his older brother also pursued a career in American football.
Simon is the son of Michael “Mike” Simon and Amy Ellis. His father played rugby at the United States Military Academy, while his mother competed in track and field at the University of Michigan. His older brother, Shayne Simon, played college football at Notre Dame and the University of Pittsburgh.
Raised in West Orange, New Jersey, Cody developed a competitive personality through childhood sports and frequent competitions with his brother.
Although his parents and brother have been publicly identified, Simon has revealed considerably less information about his romantic relationships and possible children.
Here is everything publicly known about Cody Simon’s wife or girlfriend, children, parents, siblings and family background.
Cody Simon’s Wife or Girlfriend: Is He Married?
Cody Simon has not publicly confirmed a wife or girlfriend through reliable interviews, official NFL biographies or established sports publications.
As of now, his marital status and current romantic relationship status have not been independently verified.
Despite receiving national attention as a standout Ohio State linebacker and becoming an NFL player, Simon has generally kept his dating life away from public scrutiny.
His public interviews have concentrated primarily on football, academic achievements, leadership responsibilities and family influences.
There is also no sufficiently verified public announcement identifying a spouse, fiancée or long-term romantic partner.
Consequently, it would be inaccurate to identify any particular individual as Cody Simon’s wife or girlfriend without reliable confirmation.
Cody Simon’s Children: Does He Have a Son or Daughter?
As of now, there is no verified public information confirming that Cody Simon has children.
His official Arizona Cardinals biography and Ohio State University player profile do not identify any sons or daughters.
Likewise, reliable sports interviews reviewed for this article have not established that he is a father.
However, the absence of public information does not necessarily mean Simon has no children. It simply means that his parental status has not been confirmed through trustworthy sources.
For now, information about possible children remains private.
Cody Simon’s Parents: Meet His Father and Mother
Cody Simon’s parents are Michael Simon and Amy Ellis, both former college athletes who encouraged their children to participate in competitive sports.
According to a November 2023 family profile published by The Columbus Dispatch, the couple moved to the northeastern United States for careers in finance and eventually settled in Essex County, New Jersey.
They encouraged Cody and his older brother to participate in several sports, believing that competition could teach valuable life lessons.
Cody Simon’s Father: Michael “Mike” Simon
Michael Simon, commonly known as Mike Simon, is Cody Simon’s father and a former rugby player.
He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he participated in rugby as an inside center.
His athletic experience influenced the environment in which Cody and his older brother Shayne were raised.
Mike encouraged both sons to participate in organized sports and understand the importance of discipline, teamwork and preparation.
During their childhood in New Jersey, the brothers participated in activities including football, basketball, track and taekwondo.
Their father remained interested in their athletic development as they progressed through high school and college football.
In a November 2023 interview with The Columbus Dispatch, Mike discussed Cody’s early experiences at St. Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City.
He recalled that Cody was promoted to the varsity football team while still a freshman and faced physically demanding practices against older players.
Despite being younger than many teammates, Cody demonstrated determination and gradually earned their respect.
Mike believed those experiences helped his son develop the resilience needed to compete at a higher level.
His support continued as Cody moved from high school football to Ohio State University and eventually the NFL.
Cody Simon’s Mother: Amy Ellis
Amy Ellis is Cody Simon’s mother, a former collegiate track-and-field athlete and a finance professional.
She attended the University of Michigan, where she competed on the women’s track-and-field team.
Her athletic background helped shape the family’s emphasis on sports, education and personal development.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, Amy and her husband believed that competitive sports could teach their children how to handle success, disappointment and difficult situations.
They encouraged Cody and Shayne to participate in several athletic activities rather than concentrating exclusively on football from an early age.
Amy has also enjoyed a successful professional career in finance.
A 2025 report discussing Cody’s selection by the Arizona Cardinals identified her as a managing director at Morgan Stanley and noted her earlier achievements in investment banking at Merrill Lynch.
Her professional background provided another example of dedication and perseverance within the Simon household.
She has also spoken about the competitive relationship between her two sons.
During a November 2023 interview with The Columbus Dispatch, Amy explained that Shayne’s determination to win their childhood competitions helped Cody develop mental toughness.
Because Shayne was older, Cody frequently found himself competing against someone with a physical advantage.
According to Amy, those experiences encouraged Cody to keep improving rather than becoming discouraged by defeat.
Her comments provide insight into the family’s approach to raising competitive athletes.
Cody Simon’s Siblings: Does He Have Brothers or Sisters?
Cody Simon has an older brother named Shayne Simon, who also became a college football linebacker.
Shayne is the only sibling identified in Cody’s official Arizona Cardinals biography.
Furthermore, Shayne’s official University of Pittsburgh biography states that he has one brother, supporting the conclusion that the immediate family consists of the two brothers.
Shayne Simon: Cody Simon’s Older Brother
Shayne Allan Simon is Cody Simon’s older brother and a former Notre Dame and Pittsburgh college football linebacker.
Born on March 14, 2000, Shayne developed into a highly regarded high school football prospect while attending St. Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City, New Jersey.
He received national recruiting attention after establishing himself as one of the leading defensive prospects in the state.
During his final two high school seasons, Shayne recorded 108 tackles, 23 tackles for loss, six sacks and nine interceptions.
He also earned selection to the prestigious U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
After graduating from high school, Shayne joined the University of Notre Dame, where he played linebacker for the Fighting Irish.
He subsequently transferred to the University of Pittsburgh in 2022 and continued his college football career with the Panthers.
During his time at Pittsburgh, he became an important member of the defense and served as a team captain.
Shayne earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Notre Dame and pursued graduate studies in supply chain management at Pittsburgh.
In 2024, he attended NFL training camp with the Buffalo Bills.
His football career helped establish an example that Cody followed during his own development.
Cody Simon’s Relationship With His Brother Shayne
The relationship between Cody and Shayne Simon has been a significant influence on Cody’s football career.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, the brothers grew up together in West Orange, New Jersey, and regularly competed in activities ranging from backyard basketball to pingpong and card games.
Shayne, being older, generally enjoyed the advantage in their childhood competitions.
Cody admitted that losing to his older brother encouraged him to become more competitive and develop a stronger desire to win.
Their relationship extended beyond childhood games.
Both brothers eventually became linebackers at major college football programs, allowing them to share experiences involving training, preparation and leadership.
In August 2024, Cody publicly credited Shayne for helping shape his leadership style after being named an Ohio State team captain.
Speaking to Eleven Warriors, Cody explained that he had learned from watching his brother and tried to incorporate those lessons into his own approach.
Shayne’s experience as a Pittsburgh team captain became particularly meaningful as Cody prepared to lead Ohio State’s defense.
The brothers’ relationship demonstrates how sibling competition can evolve into mentorship and mutual support.
Cody Simon’s Childhood and Family Background
Cody Simon grew up in West Orange, New Jersey, after his parents settled in the region for professional opportunities.
His childhood involved participation in several organized sports.
According to The Columbus Dispatch, his parents initially introduced Cody and Shayne to taekwondo before encouraging them to participate in football, basketball and track.
When Cody first began playing organized football, he played quarterback, the same position his older brother had initially tried.
However, he eventually discovered that he preferred playing defense.
His physical abilities and competitive instincts made linebacker a natural position as he continued developing.
Cody attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City, one of New Jersey’s established high school football programs.
His older brother had also attended the school, providing another example for Cody to follow.
During his junior season in 2018, Cody recorded 89 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks.
He also contributed an interception returned for a touchdown, four passes defended and multiple fumble recoveries.
His performances attracted interest from major college football programs.
As a senior in 2019, he helped St. Peter’s Prep win the New Jersey Non-Public Group IV state championship.
During the championship game against Don Bosco Prep, Cody recorded nine tackles and returned a punt 70 yards for a touchdown.
He completed high school as one of the top linebacker prospects in the state and committed to Ohio State University in June 2019.
How Cody Simon’s Family Influenced His College Football Career
Cody Simon joined Ohio State in 2020, beginning his college football career as a highly regarded linebacker prospect.
His first season involved adjusting to college football and competing for opportunities in a talented defensive unit.
Over the following years, Simon developed into an increasingly important contributor for the Buckeyes.
However, injuries and competition for starting positions occasionally limited his playing opportunities.
In December 2023, Simon announced that he would return to Ohio State for the 2024 season rather than immediately pursue an NFL career.
He explained that he had discussed the decision with his family and coaches before determining that another year in college was the right choice.
The decision ultimately became one of the most important of his football career.
In August 2024, Ohio State named him a team captain and awarded him the prestigious Block O jersey, recognizing leadership, toughness, accountability and character.
Simon subsequently helped lead the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff National Championship.
During the 2024 season, he recorded 112 tackles, 13 tackles for loss and seven sacks.
He was named Defensive MVP in Ohio State’s Rose Bowl victory over Oregon and its national championship victory over Notre Dame.
His achievements reflected the discipline and commitment encouraged by his parents and older brother.
Cody Simon’s Education and Academic Achievements
Education has been another important part of Cody Simon’s development.
He graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in finance in December 2023.
His academic interests reflected the professional backgrounds of his parents, who both worked in finance.
Simon earned multiple academic honors throughout his college career.
According to Ohio State and the Arizona Cardinals, he was a four-time Ohio State Scholar-Athlete and a four-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.
He was also recognized as a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar.
After completing his undergraduate degree, he pursued graduate studies in human development and family services.
His academic accomplishments demonstrate that his family encouraged success beyond the football field.
Cody Simon’s NFL Career With the Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals selected Cody Simon in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 115th overall pick.
His selection came after an outstanding final season at Ohio State, during which he helped the Buckeyes win a national championship.
Simon joined Arizona as an inside linebacker and began his professional career competing for opportunities on defense and special teams.
During the 2025 NFL season, he appeared in 16 games, making nine starts.
Following an injury to veteran linebacker Mack Wilson Sr., Simon took on a larger defensive role and started the final nine games of the regular season.
According to the Cardinals’ official statistics, he finished his rookie year with 76 combined tackles, including his contributions on special teams.
He also recorded half a sack, two passes defended and a forced fumble.
His performance against the Cincinnati Bengals in December 2025 included a season-high 15 tackles.
As of now, Simon continues his professional football career with the Arizona Cardinals in 2026.
His journey from New Jersey high school football to the NFL demonstrates the influence of his family’s athletic background, educational values and competitive mindset.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cody Simon’s Family
Who is Cody Simon’s wife?
As of now, there is no verified public confirmation that Cody Simon is married. His marital status remains private.
Does Cody Simon have a girlfriend?
Cody Simon has not publicly identified a current girlfriend through reliable interviews or official sources.
Does Cody Simon have children?
There is no reliable public confirmation that Cody Simon has a son or daughter.
Who is Cody Simon’s father?
His father is Michael “Mike” Simon, who played rugby at the United States Military Academy at West Point.
Who is Cody Simon’s mother?
His mother is Amy Ellis, a former University of Michigan track-and-field athlete who pursued a professional career in finance.
Who is Cody Simon’s brother?
His older brother is Shayne Simon, who played college football at Notre Dame and the University of Pittsburgh.
Does Cody Simon have any sisters?
No sisters have been identified in reliable public biographies. His brother Shayne’s official college biography states that Shayne has one brother.
Is Cody Simon related to Shayne Simon?
Yes. Cody Simon and Shayne Simon are brothers. Both played linebacker at major college football programs.
Where is Cody Simon from?
Cody Simon grew up in West Orange, New Jersey, and attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City.
What college did Cody Simon attend?
He attended Ohio State University, where he played football from 2020 through 2024 and earned a degree in finance.
What NFL team does Cody Simon play for?
As of now, Cody Simon plays for the Arizona Cardinals, who selected him in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Valentim Tereshkova is a sports journalist and NFL analyst specializing in team dynamics, scheme breakdowns, and league-wide trends. Covering everything from offseason roster construction and Draft developments to Sunday game plans and Super Bowl contenders, he delivers clear, sharp commentary on the gridiron. Valentim combines stat-driven analysis with a passion for football storytelling to give readers an expert look into the AFC and NFC.
