As the familiar blue and white paint, the campus for Homecoming week, a quiet leader on the Georgia Southern Eagles football team is taking a moment to reflect. For senior offensive lineman Pichon Wimbley, this week is more than just a game; it’s the culmination of a four-year journey in Statesboro that has shaped him as both a player and a person. A consistent starter on the offensive line since his freshman year, he has been a bedrock for the team, and his impact extends far beyond the gridiron of Paulson Stadium.

Growth and Loyalty in Eagle Nation

From the moment he stepped onto the Statesboro campus, Wimbley was tasked with a significant role. The journey from a new freshman to a seasoned, All-Sun Belt caliber veteran has been one of immense personal growth.

“I feel like I’ve grown as a person in just maturing,” he shares. “From when I got here to now, just knowing how to handle my business, both on the field and in the classroom.”

In an era where college athletes frequently enter the transfer portal, his decision to remain an Eagle for his entire career is a testament to his loyalty to the program and the university. “Being able to spend all my time at one school means a lot to me,” Wimbley explains. “I’ve made a lot of connections that have helped me with football and that will help me with what will happen after, in the real world.”

Character Beyond the Field

Wimbley’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. This past summer, he was nominated for the prestigious Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, a national award that recognizes college football players for their outstanding character and community service. For Wimbley, the motivation to give back is deeply personal and rooted in his upbringing.  

“What motivates me to be so involved is my parents and always giving back,” he says. “They always taught me at a young age to help those who don’t have as much as you do. I grew up and I got what I needed, and I understand that other people didn’t have the same things that I have. So, just giving back to others means a lot to me.”

Leading the Eagle Offense

As a senior, his role has naturally evolved from a newcomer to a mentor in the locker room. He is acutely aware that his actions, both on and off the field, are watched by the younger players who now look up to him for guidance.

“It’s evolved a lot since I first got here,” he reflects. “I got here and I was a nobody, and now more people know me, so there are more eyes on me.”

When asked what impression he wants to leave on his teammates, his answer is simple and powerful, reflecting the blue-collar mentality of the program. “Just work. What it takes to be a four-year starter… it’s a lot of stuff that goes in that people don’t see, that you need to work at.”

The Last Ride at Paulson

With his final Homecoming game as a Georgia Southern Eagle approaching, Wimbley is soaking it all in. The emotions are a mix of nostalgia for past Saturdays in Statesboro, gratitude, and a determination to finish his career strong.

“A lot of memories from over the years,” he says, thinking back. “I’ve played with different offensive lines, different coaches… I’m really taking it all in. It’s my last ride, just thinking about all the past and how I want this one to go.”

Through all the wins, losses, and grueling practices, football has taught him a lesson he’ll carry with him long after he hangs up his Eagle helmet.

“You gotta go to the next play,” he says firmly. “Bad things are gonna happen, good things are gonna happen. But at the end of the day, it’s all about the next play, because if you think about what happened the last play, you’ll get beat on the next.”

A Future in Focus

While the dream of playing professionally is still a possibility—“If football can be something more and bigger, I’ll take that chance”—Wimbley has a clear and admirable plan for his future, one that involves continuing his education. With a major in exercise science, he has a passion for helping others recover and heal.

“I also want to be a physical therapist,” he reveals. “I plan on going to physical therapy school in the next year.”

As Pichon Wimbley prepares to take the field for his final Homecoming game, he represents the very best of what it means to be a Georgia Southern Eagle: a dedicated player, a compassionate community member, and an inspiring leader with a bright future ahead.