Week 16 of the 2025 NFL season brought plenty of playoff drama, but it also served as a showcase for some of the league's most impactful former Iowa Hawkeyes. From highlight-reel catches to sideline-closing tackles, Iowa alums were all over the field this past weekend - and in some cases, they were the difference-makers.
Let’s break down three ex-Hawkeyes who made serious noise in Week 16.
George Kittle, TE - San Francisco 49ers
George Kittle reminded everyone on Monday Night Football why he’s still one of the most dangerous tight ends in the NFL. In the 49ers’ 48-27 win over the Colts, Kittle hauled in seven catches for 115 yards and a touchdown - his first 100-yard game of the season and his fifth outing with at least six receptions.
Kittle’s chemistry with Brock Purdy continues to be a key cog in San Francisco’s high-powered offense. Whether it’s stretching the field on seam routes or bulldozing through defenders after the catch, Kittle’s versatility was on full display. His touchdown came on a classic Kittle play - a tough grab in traffic, followed by yards after contact that only he seems to rack up with regularity.
There was a moment of concern in the third quarter when Kittle exited with an ankle injury. He walked off under his own power and didn’t head to the medical tent, but he didn’t return to the game.
While the 49ers didn’t need him down the stretch, his status will be something to monitor as the postseason looms. Even in limited action, Kittle left his mark - and then some.
Jack Campbell, LB - Detroit Lions
Jack Campbell continues to be a tackling machine for the Lions. In Detroit’s 29-24 loss to the Steelers, the rookie linebacker racked up a career-high 16 tackles, added two passes defended, and recovered a fumble for good measure.
This wasn’t just a stat-padding performance. Campbell was everywhere - plugging gaps, dropping into coverage, and delivering punishing hits. His ability to read plays before they develop is starting to look like a veteran trait, and his instincts in zone coverage helped limit Pittsburgh’s short passing game.
Campbell now has five games with double-digit tackles in his last six outings, and he’s becoming a cornerstone of Detroit’s defense. While the Lions came up short on the scoreboard, Campbell’s emergence as a consistent force in the middle is one of the most encouraging developments for their playoff hopes.
Cooper DeJean, CB - Philadelphia Eagles
Cooper DeJean is starting to look right at home in the Eagles’ secondary - and Week 16 was his best all-around performance yet. In Philly’s 29-18 win over Washington, the rookie corner racked up five tackles, four passes defended, and notched his second interception of the season.
With the Commanders rolling out backup quarterback Josh Johnson for much of the game, DeJean and the Eagles defense took full advantage. DeJean’s ball skills were on display all afternoon, as he broke up multiple passes in key situations and showed the kind of closing speed that made him a first-round pick.
Through 15 games, DeJean has already tallied 84 tackles and 16 passes defended - production that’s rare for a rookie corner. He’s playing with confidence, reading routes like a seasoned vet, and has quickly become a trusted piece in a defense that’s rounding into playoff form.
Final Word
Whether it’s Kittle carving up defenses, Campbell anchoring the middle, or DeJean locking down the outside, former Iowa Hawkeyes are making serious contributions across the league. Week 16 was just the latest reminder: these guys aren’t just in the NFL - they’re thriving.