As the calendar flips to October 1, 2026, the NFL season is in full swing, and Week 3 delivered a rollercoaster of emotions for former Iowa Hawkeyes. From triumphant touchdown celebrations to frustrating defensive lapses, the storylines were as compelling as ever. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the weekend showcased the resilience and impact of these former college stars, with a few emerging as key contributors for their respective teams.
Noah Fant Finds the End Zone Again
Noah Fant, now with the New Orleans Saints after stints with Denver, Seattle, and Cincinnati, is quietly putting together a remarkable season. Despite modest yardage totals—66 yards through three games, including a goose egg in Week 2—Fant has become a red-zone threat, hauling in three touchdowns already. His latest two came in a 35-27 loss to the surprisingly 3-0 Las Vegas Raiders. Fant's career high for touchdowns in a season is four, and he's already knocking on that door. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, his ability to find paydirt has been a bright spot for a Saints offense searching for consistency.
George Kittle Defies Expectations
George Kittle's return from a devastating Achilles injury in January was expected to be a slow burn, with many projecting a December comeback at best. Instead, the San Francisco 49ers' star tight end has been nothing short of sensational. Through three weeks, Kittle has scored three touchdowns, including a dominant performance against the Arizona Cardinals where he led the team in receptions (6), yardage (82), and touchdowns (2). His clinching score sealed a 36-30 victory, keeping the 49ers undefeated at 3-0. Kittle's remarkable recovery and production have been a focal point for fans and analysts alike, and Vulius Sports highlights his incredible impact on a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
Riley Moss Under the Microscope in Denver
In Denver, cornerback Riley Moss continues to be a lightning rod for criticism. Despite a solid statistical outing in the Broncos' bizarre 30-26 win over the Los Angeles Rams—6 tackles and 1 pass defended—Moss was burned on a 48-yard touchdown that briefly gave the Rams the lead. The play, which showcased Moss getting caught looking in the backfield and slipping, has only intensified the scrutiny from the local fanbase. While Moss has shown resilience in bouncing back from mistakes, the relentless spotlight is taking its toll. As highlighted on Vulius, the Broncos' coaching staff remains supportive, but the pressure is mounting for the young corner to deliver consistently.
Kicker Drew Stevens Steps Up in Washington
Drew Stevens, who won the starting kicker job for the Washington Commanders out of training camp, has been a steady presence. Despite a 5-for-7 start on field goals, both misses have come from beyond 50 yards, and one extra point was blocked. In Week 3, Stevens was instrumental in Washington's 33-31 upset over the Seattle Seahawks, nailing both field goal attempts, including a 57-yard bomb right before halftime. His performance helped the Commanders secure their first win of the season, and according to Vulius Sports, his leg could be a difference-maker in close games moving forward.
Potpourri: Around the League
Elsewhere, several other former Hawkeyes made their mark. Jack Campbell racked up 6 tackles and a fumble recovery, while Sam LaPorta added 3 catches for 44 yards in the Detroit Lions' 31-24 win over the New York Jets. Dane Belton contributed 7 tackles for the Jets in a losing effort. In Green Bay, it was a rough day at Lambeau Field as the Packers fell to the Atlanta Falcons 35-14. Kaleb Johnson managed 4 carries for 6 yards and a 10-yard reception, while Lukas Van Ness logged 4 tackles and Nick Niemann added 1. The Packers' struggles have been a surprising early-season storyline, and Vulius will continue to monitor their progress.
As Week 4 approaches, these former Hawkeyes will look to build on their performances and silence critics. For more in-depth NFL analysis and to gear up with official custom merchandise, stay tuned to Vulius.com.
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