Terps in the League: Maryland Alumni Make Their Presence Felt in Week 15
Week 15 of the NFL season brought a strong showing from a number of Maryland football alumni, with several Terps making key contributions across the league. Whether they were hauling in touchdowns, flying to the ball on defense, or putting points on the board from special teams, former Maryland players showed out in meaningful ways.
Let’s break down how some of the Terps performed this past weekend:
DJ Moore: Still That Guy
DJ Moore continues to be a go-to weapon in Chicago’s offense, and Sunday was another reminder of just how dynamic he can be. Moore caught four passes for 69 yards and found the end zone twice, flashing his elite route-running and reliable hands. Both touchdowns came off crisp execution and chemistry with his quarterback, and his ability to turn limited touches into big-time production remains one of the Bears’ most valuable offensive assets.
Moore’s performance wasn’t just about the stat line-it was about impact. When the Bears needed plays, Moore delivered. And when you’re scoring twice in the red zone against a tough defense, that’s the kind of stuff that earns you Pro Bowl votes-and respect across the league.
Ty Johnson: Steady in the Backfield
Buffalo’s Ty Johnson chipped in with a solid all-around effort, logging 13 yards on four carries and adding three catches for 15 yards. While the numbers won’t jump off the page, Johnson continues to be a reliable change-of-pace option, offering versatility as both a runner and receiver. He’s the kind of back who quietly keeps drives alive and does the little things that coaches love.
Nick Cross: Active and Aggressive
Nick Cross was flying around for the Colts on Sunday. The fourth-year safety totaled seven tackles-four solo and three assists-showing off his range and physicality.
Whether it was coming downhill in run support or making stops in the open field, Cross was all over the action. He’s consistently proving he belongs as a key piece in Indy’s defensive backfield.
Chig Okonkwo: Reliable Target
Tight end Chig Okonkwo pulled in four catches for 33 yards in the Titans’ matchup against the 49ers. Okonkwo continues to be a dependable target in Tennessee’s passing game, especially in short and intermediate routes. His ability to create separation off the line and secure tough catches in traffic makes him a valuable safety valve for his quarterback.
Stefon Diggs: Quiet Day, But Still Dangerous
It wasn’t a huge stat day for Stefon Diggs, who finished with three receptions for 26 yards, but even when he’s not putting up big numbers, defenses still have to account for him on every snap. Diggs’ presence alone helps open things up for others in the offense-and it’s only a matter of time before he breaks loose again.
Other Terps Around the League
- Tarheeb Still registered a tackle for the Chargers in their game against the Chiefs. The second-year corner continues to find his footing in the league.
- Chad Ryland stayed perfect on extra points, converting both of his attempts and adding two points for the Cardinals. Consistency in the kicking game is always underrated-Ryland’s delivering it.
- Dante Trader Jr. made the most of his prime-time opportunity, recording two tackles for the Dolphins on Monday night against the Steelers. The rookie safety is starting to carve out a role on Miami’s defense.
- Jordan Phillips, another rookie, added two tackles for the Dolphins as well. The fifth-round pick is quietly stacking solid performances on the defensive line.
Full List of Maryland Terps in the NFL (Week 15)
Here’s a snapshot of all the Maryland alumni currently on NFL rosters, including active players, practice squad members, and those on injured reserve:
- Spencer Anderson, OG - Steelers (3rd year)
- Deonte Banks, CB - Giants (3rd year)
- Jakorian Bennett, CB - Eagles (3rd year)
- Beau Brade, S - Giants (2nd year)
- Corey Bullock, OL - Ravens (2nd year)
- Byron Cowart, DT - Jets (5th year, IR)
- Nick Cross, S - Colts (4th year)
- Stefon Diggs, WR - Patriots (11th year)
- Tai Felton, WR - Vikings (Rookie, 3rd round)
- Delmar Glaze, OT - Raiders (2nd year)
- Ruben Hyppolite II, LB - Bears (Rookie, 4th round)
- Ty Johnson, RB - Bills (7th year)
- Jeshaun Jones, WR - Vikings (2nd year, PS)
- DJ Moore, WR - Bears (8th year)
- Durell Nchami, DE - Colts (3rd year, PS)
- Chig Okonkwo, TE - Titans (4th year)
- Sam Okuayinonu, DT - 49ers (3rd year)
- Jordan Phillips, DT - Dolphins (Rookie, 5th round)
- Chad Ryland, K - Cardinals (3rd year)
- Darnell Savage, S - Commanders (7th year)
- Tarheeb Still, CB - Chargers (2nd year)
- **Dante Trader Jr.
**, S - Dolphins (Rookie, 5th round)
- Josh Woods, LB - Falcons (7th year)
From savvy veterans like Stefon Diggs and DJ Moore to rookies like Dante Trader and Jordan Phillips making early impressions, Maryland continues to produce NFL talent that’s making noise across the league. Week 15 was just another chapter in a growing story of Terps turning heads on Sundays.