As the NFL regular season barrels toward the postseason, a handful of former Syracuse standouts are making their presence felt across the league. Whether it’s filling key roles on playoff contenders or making the most of limited snaps, these Orange alumni are finding ways to contribute-and in some cases, shine-in Week 15.
Zaire Franklin - LB, Indianapolis Colts
Zaire Franklin continues to be a tackling machine in the middle of the Colts’ defense. In a gritty 18-16 loss to the Seahawks-a game in which the Colts didn’t allow a single touchdown-Franklin racked up 10 tackles, including seven solo stops and one for a loss.
His sideline-to-sideline range and physicality remain a cornerstone of Indy’s defense, even as the team battles through inconsistency on the offensive side. While the Colts came up short, Franklin’s leadership and production haven’t wavered.
LeQuint Allen - RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville’s blowout win gave LeQuint Allen a chance to stretch his legs, and he made the most of it. The rookie back logged four carries for 11 yards and added a five-yard reception, but his most eye-popping moment came on special teams-a 50-yard kickoff return that flipped field position and showcased his burst in the open field.
Allen’s role might be modest for now, but he’s carving out a niche with his versatility. His pass protection continues to earn praise-no small feat for a young back-and with Bhayshul Tuten dealing with injury, the door could be opening for Allen to take on more responsibility down the stretch.
LeQuint Allen chips in pass pro are not for the faint of heart. @acosta32_jp, December 15, 2025
Sean Tucker - RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Sean Tucker is finding his groove in Tampa’s backfield rotation. Used in short-yardage and goal-line situations, Tucker found the end zone for the second straight week, giving the Bucs a spark when they needed it most. He also returned two kickoffs for 42 yards, providing value beyond just the offensive snaps.
That said, his four carries netted just seven yards in a tough Thursday night loss to the Falcons. Still, the trust being shown in Tucker near the goal line is a sign the coaching staff sees him as a physical runner who can deliver in high-leverage spots.
Riley Dixon - P, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Also contributing for the Bucs was veteran punter Riley Dixon, who had a busy night with four punts, averaging 41.3 yards per boot. Two of those landed inside the Falcons’ 20-yard line, helping control field position in a game where every yard mattered. Dixon’s consistency remains a quiet but important asset for Tampa.
Matthew Bergeron - OL, Atlanta Falcons
On the other side of that Thursday night matchup, Matthew Bergeron helped anchor a Falcons offensive line that dominated in the trenches. Back from injury, Bergeron looked sharp, helping pave the way for 5.3 yards per carry on the ground. Atlanta’s offensive front also kept Kirk Cousins mostly upright, surrendering just one sack.
Bergeron’s mobility and technique continue to stand out, especially in the run game. His return has clearly bolstered a Falcons offense that’s leaning on physicality to stay in the playoff hunt.
Matthew Bergeron is such a unique mover. @TheoAshNFL, December 12, 2025
Andre Szmyt - K, Cleveland Browns
It was a rough outing for the Browns in a 31-3 loss to the Bears, but rookie kicker Andre Szmyt provided Cleveland’s only points, drilling a 50-yard field goal in frigid Chicago conditions. It’s the kind of kick that speaks to Szmyt’s leg strength and poise, even in a game that got away from the Browns early.
Oronde Gadsden II - TE, Los Angeles Chargers
In a gritty 16-13 win over the Chiefs, rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden II stepped up in a big way. He led the Chargers in receiving, hauling in four catches for 61 yards, including a 27-yard gain that helped flip momentum. The performance pushed Gadsden into the franchise record books-he’s now the Chargers’ all-time rookie leader in both receptions and receiving yards by a tight end.
That’s not just a feel-good stat-it’s a sign of how quickly Gadsden has adapted to the pro game. His route running, hands, and ability to find soft spots in coverage have made him a favorite target for Justin Herbert.
Chargers Top 5 PFF Offensive Grades vs. Chiefs:
TE Oronde Gadsden II - 90.7
WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith - 74.1
RB Omarion Hampton - 71.4
QB Justin Herbert - 67.0
LT Jamaree Salyer - 64.1
@alexinsdorf99, December 15, 2025
Ifeatu Melifonwu - DB, Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins saw their four-game win streak snapped in a Monday night loss to the Steelers, a defeat that pushed them out of the current playoff picture. Defensive back Ifeatu Melifonwu recorded three tackles in the game, including one solo early on. While it wasn’t a headline-grabbing performance, Melifonwu continues to play a steady role in Miami’s secondary rotation.
As the playoff race tightens, these former Syracuse players are proving they belong on the big stage. From special teams sparks to defensive stalwarts and rising offensive weapons, the Orange roots are running deep across the NFL landscape.