Week 16 is in the books, and while the playoff picture sharpens across the NFL, a handful of former Iowa State Cyclones are making their presence felt in a big way. From breakout performances to steady production, Iowa State alumni are quietly - and in some cases loudly - shaping games on Sundays (and Mondays). Whether you're a Cyclone diehard or just keeping tabs on rising NFL talent, these three names deserve a closer look after standout efforts this past week.
Brock Purdy, QB - San Francisco 49ers
Let’s start with the headliner.
Brock Purdy didn’t just manage the game on Monday Night Football - he owned it. The 49ers’ quarterback was in full command of Kyle Shanahan’s offense, carving up the Colts in a 48-27 statement win.
Purdy finished 25-of-34 for 295 yards, five touchdown passes, and one interception. He also chipped in 11 yards on the ground.
What stood out wasn’t just the stat line - though five touchdown passes will always turn heads - it was the way he operated. Purdy looked decisive, comfortable, and completely in rhythm with his weapons. His timing with Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle was spot-on, and he showed poise when the pocket got muddy.
This marked the first time Purdy has thrown four or more touchdowns in a game since December 2023 against Arizona, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. With the postseason looming, this kind of performance reinforces why San Francisco is viewed as one of the NFC’s most dangerous teams.
Purdy’s growth from “Mr. Irrelevant” to franchise quarterback continues to be one of the league’s most compelling stories.
Breece Hall, RB - New York Jets
The numbers won’t jump off the page, but Breece Hall continues to be the heartbeat of the Jets’ offense - even in a lopsided 29-6 loss to the Saints.
Hall carried the ball 16 times for 54 yards and added two receptions for nine yards. It was a grind-it-out kind of day against a tough New Orleans front, but Hall once again showed flashes of the elusiveness and vision that make him such a dangerous back, even when the blocking isn’t there.
On the season, Hall has racked up 945 rushing yards and 332 receiving yards with four total touchdowns. Considering the Jets’ offensive struggles this year, those numbers speak volumes. He’s been one of the few consistent threats in an otherwise turbulent season in New York.
Hall’s ability to create yards after contact and stay involved in the passing game has made him indispensable. With two games left, he’s within striking distance of a 1,000-yard rushing season - a milestone that would be a testament to his durability and determination in a challenging offensive environment.
Will McDonald IV, DE - New York Jets
While the Jets’ offense has struggled, their defense continues to flash potential - and rookie edge rusher Will McDonald IV is part of that equation.
In the same loss to the Saints, McDonald logged four tackles, one sack, and two quarterback hits. He’s now up to 30 tackles and eight sacks on the season - strong numbers for a first-year pass rusher still finding his footing in the NFL.
What’s been impressive about McDonald is his burst off the edge and his ability to convert speed to power. He’s not just relying on athleticism; he’s showing a growing understanding of how to set up offensive tackles and finish plays. The sack against New Orleans showcased his ability to bend and close quickly - traits that made him such a high-upside prospect coming out of Iowa State.
With the Jets investing heavily in their defensive front, McDonald is proving he belongs in the rotation. If he continues on this trajectory, he could be a major piece of their pass rush for years to come.
Bottom Line:
Iowa State may not be a traditional NFL pipeline, but its recent alumni are making a serious impact.
Purdy is playing like a seasoned vet on a Super Bowl contender. Hall continues to be a bright spot in a struggling offense.
And McDonald is flashing the kind of talent that could anchor a defense. As Week 16 showed, the Cyclones are more than holding their own on the biggest stage.