As the excitement builds in Buffalo for the upcoming NFL season, many former FCS players are catching the attention of fans and analysts alike. With the league set to kick off, a closer look reveals several standout athletes from FCS programs who could make a significant impact on their NFL teams.
One player to keep an eye on is Andrei Iosivas, who plays wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite sharing the field with stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, Iosivas, a former track and field standout, may find himself more involved than expected, especially with contract uncertainties looming.
Another noteworthy addition to the league is Brandon Codrington, an exciting kick and punt returner recently acquired by the Buffalo Bills from the Jets. His background at North Carolina Central showcases his explosive playmaking ability, suggesting he could instantly affect games.
In a bold move, the Bills have shown confidence in Christian Benford stepping in to fill the shoes of Tre’Davious White. This reflects a growing trend where teams are willing to bank on homegrown talent.
Jaleel McLaughlin, while not the starting running back in Denver, could see an uptick in carries this season as teams increasingly rely on multiple backs. He leads the NCAA in rushing yards, a testament to his potential.
On the other side of the field, Dallas Goedert continues to establish himself as a key player for the Philadelphia Eagles. After a disappointing end to last season, he will be pivotal in their offensive plans, especially in the red zone. Similarly, Javon Hargrave remains a crucial part of the formidable 49ers defense.
Kyle Juszczyk, often regarded as the premier fullback in the NFL, remains vital to the San Francisco 49ers. His versatility on the field allows for a dynamic offense, making him challenging for defenses to handle.
Although not a starter, James Houston can be a game-changer for the Lions with his knack for making plays. After a successful rookie season, fans can expect him to contribute significantly this year.
Meanwhile, Foyesade Oluokun continues to demonstrate his underrated status with over 170 tackles recorded in each of the last three seasons, while Xavier Gipson seeks to fill a larger role alongside Aaron Rodgers in New York.
Finally, Christian Watson, a former North Dakota State standout, will be counted on to support quarterback Jordan Love, and Dylan Laube aims to carve out a role in the Las Vegas Raiders’ offense amidst a competitive running back landscape.
With the NFL season just around the corner, college football fans can feel proud of their former FCS stars who are now poised to showcase their talents on the national stage.
