How Former Hoosiers Fared in Week 1 of the 2021 NFL Season

Written by Evan McShane

Twelve former Indiana players begin the 2021 season either on an active NFL roster or practice squad. Six of those Hoosiers were active for the opening week of the season.

Rodger Saffold – Tennessee Titans

Rodger Saffold got the start at left guard on Sunday. The Titans lost at home to the Cardinals. Saffold and his team hope to rebound next week on the road against Seattle.

Tevin Coleman – New York Jets

The Jets couldn’t complete the comeback on Sunday, but running back Tevin Coleman got the start. Coleman led all Jets players in rushing yards and carries. The former IU runner had nine carries for 24 yards in New York’s loss at Carolina. Coleman and the Jets hope to get in the win column next week at home against the Patriots.

Nate Sudfeld – San Francisco 49er

Nate Sudfeld was inactive for the 49ers win against Detroit. Sudfeld remains on the San Francisco practice squad.

Dan Feeney – New York Jets

Dan Feeney was active on the bench for the Jets opening week loss on the road against Carolina.

Ian Thomas – Carolina Panthers

Ian Thomas caught one pass for 17 yards in the Panthers’ week one win at home against the Jets. The former Hoosier tight end is poised for a productive 2021 season. Carolina hosts New Orleans next week.

Jordan Howard – Philadelphia Eagles

Jordan Howard was inactive for the Eagles win over Atlanta on Sunday. Howard remains on Philadelphia’s practice squad.

Wes Martin – Washington Football Team

Wes Martin is on Washington’s practice squad and was not active for their opening week loss to the Chargers.

Brandon Knight – Dallas Cowboys

Brandon Knight found himself on the COVID inactive list for the Cowboys week one loss to the Buccaneers. The young offensive lineman begins his third season with the Dallas Cowboys. Knight hopes to be active for week two.

Nick Westbrook-Ikhine – Tennessee Titans

Nick Westbrook-Ikhine was targeted twice in the Titans loss to the Cardinals on Sunday. Westbrook-Ikhine caught one pass for ten yards in the game. The former IU standout wide receiver begins his second year in the NFL where he hopes to carve out a niche on the Titans offense.

Jason Spriggs – Atlanta Falcons

Jason Spriggs was active for week one and saw snaps on special teams. The veteran offensive lineman has stuck around the league despite a rash of injuries to start his career. Spriggs and the Falcons lost their opener to Philadelphia, but hope to get back on track next week in Tampa Bay.

Jamar Johnson – Denver Broncos

Rookie Jamar Johnson was inactive for the Denver Broncos on Sunday. The former IU safety begins his NFL career after being selected in the fifth round of the 2021 Draft. Johnson hopes to ease his way into Denver’s defensive rotation as the season progresses.

Whop Philyor – Minnesota Vikings

Whop Philyor was inactive for the Vikings week one loss to Cincinnati. Philyor was signed to Minnesota’s practice squad this offseason.