Written by Evan McShane

Indiana had eight players active as the NFL kicked off its season Thursday. There were no breakout performances, but still plenty of action. Let’s take a look around the league to check in on those former Hoosiers.

Rodger Saffold, LG, Tennessee Titans

Rodger Saffold got the start in Tennessee’s opener on Monday night. The Titans got the win over the Broncos 16-14 as Saffold continued his ironman streak – having missed only two games since 2016. Saffold and the Titans are looking to build off of an impressive run to the AFC Championship game last year.

Jordan Howard, RB, Miami Dolphins

It was a slow day for the Dolphins offense as they fell 21-11 to the New England Patriots. Jordan Howard was unable to get anything going, carrying the ball eight times for just seven total yards. The former Hoosier running back hopes to get back on track next week as the Dolphins host the Bills.

Tevin Coleman, RB, San Francisco 49ers

Tevin Coleman begins the 2020 season healthy after being injured late last year as the 49ers lost in the Super Bowl. Coleman carried the ball four times for 18 yards and added one reception for six yards. San Francisco botched a late lead and lost to Arizona 24-20. Coleman will look to increase his production next week as the former NFC champs play the Jets next week.

Nate Sudfeld, QB, Philadelphia Eagles

Nate Sudfeld was active as the Eagles backup QB in their loss against divisional rival Washington. After recovering from a broken wrist last year, Sudfeld will be ready in case his number is called.

Dan Feeney, LG, Los Angeles Chargers

Dan Feeney got the start at left guard for the Chargers in their win over the Bengals. Feeney helped pave the way for 155 rushing yards as LA held off the Bengals 16-13 thanks to a missed 31-yard field goal by Cincinnati. Feeney and the Chargers hope to build off this win as they host the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs next week.

Ian Thomas, TE, Carolina Panthers

Ian Thomas clocked two receptions for 16 yards in Carolina’s loss against the Raiders. The Panthers had a chance to win but surrendered a late touchdown and could not mount a game-winning drive. Thomas will have ample opportunity to become Carolina’s top tight end. He hopes to get more involved in the passing attack moving forward.

Jason Spriggs, OT, Chicago Bears

Spriggs was hobbled in camp with a sprained knee but was active on Sunday for the Bears comeback victory over the Lions. Trailing by 17 points in the fourth quarter, the Bears stormed back with three late touchdowns to win 27-23. Spriggs did not see game action, but it is promising that he was able to regain health.

Wes Martin, OL, Washington Football Team

Wes Martin started at left guard in Washington’s comeback victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. After falling down early 17-0, Washington stormed back with 27 unanswered points to win the game by double digits. Martin hopes his team can build off this win next week as they face the Arizona Cardinals.

Brandon Knight, OL, Dallas Cowboys

Brandon Knight didn’t get the start at right tackle, but he did see some game action. The Cowboys lost to the LA Rams in a close game. Knight hopes he can work his way into the regular rotation along the Cowboys offensive line as Dallas looked to bounce back after this week one loss.

Nick Westbrook, WR, Tennessee Titans
Nick Westbrook was elevated to the Titans’ official roster from the practice squad ahead of Tennessee’s Monday night victory over the Denver Broncos. Westbrook did not record a stat, but his call-up is a promising sign for the young wide receiver’s future.

Simon Stepaniak, OL, Green Bay Packers

Stepaniak was inactive for the Packers dismantling of the Minnesota Vikings. The young offensive lineman made the Green Bay roster but will likely be used in an emergency role this season.

The Huddle

How Former Hoosiers Fared in Week 1 of the 2020 NFL Season

Hoosier Huddle