Terps Take Over Week 16: DJ Moore, Stefon Diggs, and More Shine Across the NFL
Week 16 in the NFL delivered some late-season fireworks, and a handful of Maryland football alumni were right in the middle of the action. From walk-off touchdowns to clutch special teams play, former Terps made their presence felt across the league - and in some cases, helped tilt the outcome of games.
Let’s break down the standout performances from Maryland alums who made big-time contributions this weekend.
DJ Moore Delivers in Overtime
When the Bears needed a hero in overtime against the Packers, DJ Moore stepped up - and then some. The veteran wideout hauled in five catches for 97 yards, but it was his final grab that sealed the deal: a game-winning touchdown that sent Soldier Field into a frenzy.
Moore’s chemistry with Chicago’s quarterback continues to be a bright spot in the Bears' offense, and this latest performance was a reminder of just how dangerous he can be in crunch time. With his trademark route-running and yards-after-catch ability, Moore has become the go-to guy when the game's on the line - and this week, he delivered with authority.
Ty Johnson Finds the End Zone for Buffalo
Ty Johnson didn’t need a ton of touches to make an impact for the Bills. The veteran running back carried the ball just three times, but made the most of his opportunities, racking up 16 yards and punching in a touchdown.
Johnson’s role in Buffalo’s backfield may not always be high volume, but he continues to prove he can be efficient and effective in key moments. His ability to hit the hole quickly and finish runs with power gives the Bills a reliable option when they need a spark on the ground.
Chig Okonkwo Scores for the Titans
Tennessee tight end Chig Okonkwo added another solid performance to his growing résumé, pulling in six receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown. Known for his athleticism and versatility, Okonkwo was a reliable target throughout the game and capped it off by finding the end zone.
Whether he’s lined up in the slot, in-line, or even coming out of the backfield, Okonkwo continues to be a matchup problem for defenses. His ability to create separation and make tough catches in traffic gives the Titans a dynamic weapon in the passing game.
Stefon Diggs Shines in Primetime
Stefon Diggs reminded everyone why he’s still one of the league’s elite receivers. Under the bright lights of Sunday Night Football, Diggs torched the defense for nine catches and 138 yards, showcasing his route-running precision and big-play ability.
His connection with New England’s young quarterback was on full display, as the duo carved up coverages with timing and rhythm. Diggs continues to be the heartbeat of the Patriots' passing attack, and his veteran savvy is proving invaluable as the team pushes toward the postseason.
Chad Ryland Comes Up Clutch for the Cardinals
Kicker Chad Ryland had a busy day, and he made every opportunity count. The third-year specialist knocked through four field goals, including a long of 51 yards, and added an extra point to total 13 points on the day.
In a league where special teams can swing close games, Ryland’s consistency and leg strength are major assets. He’s quietly become one of the more reliable kickers in the league, and his performance this week was a perfect example of how a steady kicker can keep the scoreboard moving.
Other Terps Around the League
It wasn’t just the headline-makers who contributed this week. Several other Maryland alumni made their presence felt in more subtle - but still important - ways:
- Tarheeb Still logged two tackles for the Chargers against the Cowboys, continuing to develop his role in the secondary.
- Tai Felton, a rookie wideout for the Vikings, recorded one catch for six yards.
- Dante Trader Jr., a rookie safety with the Dolphins, made five total tackles (two solo, three assists) against the Bengals.
- Josh Woods, now in his seventh season, added two solo tackles and one assist for the Falcons in a physical matchup with the Cardinals.
- Sam Okuayinonu picked up one solo tackle and two assists for the 49ers on Monday Night Football against the Colts.
- Nick Cross, a fourth-year safety for the Colts, had a productive outing with six total tackles, including three solo.
Full List of Terps in the NFL (As of Week 16)
Here’s a look at all the Maryland alumni currently on NFL rosters, including practice squads and injured reserve:
- Spencer Anderson (Steelers, OG, 3rd year)
- Deonte Banks (Giants, CB, 3rd year)
- Jakorian Bennett (Eagles, CB, 3rd year)
- Beau Brade (Giants, S, 2nd year)
- Corey Bullock (Ravens, OL, 2nd year)
- Byron Cowart (Jets, DT, 5th year - IR)
- Nick Cross (Colts, S, 4th year)
- Stefon Diggs (Patriots, WR, 11th year)
- Tai Felton (Vikings, WR, Rookie - 3rd round)
- Delmar Glaze (Raiders, OT, 2nd year)
- Ruben Hyppolite II (Bears, LB, Rookie - 4th round)
- Ty Johnson (Bills, RB, 7th year)
- Jeshaun Jones (Vikings, WR, 2nd year - PS)
- DJ Moore (Bears, WR, 8th year)
- Durell Nchami (Colts, DE, 3rd year - PS)
- Chig Okonkwo (Titans, TE, 4th year)
- Sam Okuayinonu (49ers, DT, 3rd year)
- Jordan Phillips (Dolphins, DT, Rookie - 5th round)
- Chad Ryland (Cardinals, K, 3rd year)
- Darnell Savage (Commanders, S, 7th year)
- Tarheeb Still (Chargers, CB, 2nd year)
- **Dante Trader Jr.
** (Dolphins, S, Rookie - 5th round)
- Josh Woods (Falcons, LB, 7th year)
From veterans like Diggs and Moore to rookies like Felton and Trader, Maryland’s NFL pipeline continues to produce impact players across the board. As the regular season winds down and playoff races heat up, don’t be surprised if more Terps make noise in the weeks to come.