Former Purdue football players are leaving an indelible mark in the 2023-24 NFL season, showcasing their prowess on both sides of the ball. The consistent standout performances of an offensive weapon and many defensive leaders have drawn attention to the enduring legacy of Boilermakers in the professional ranks.
Continuing his remarkable season, Miami Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert found the end zone once again on Sunday. Mostert carried the ball 11 time for 43 yards, one touchdown, and one eight-yard reception. With a league-leading 14 rushing touchdowns already to his name, Mostert stands just three touchdowns away from breaking the Dolphins' historic rushing touchdown record of 16 set by Ricky Williams in 2002. His explosive speed, elusive moves, and nose for the end zone have turned heads across the league, making him a formidable force in the Dolphins' backfield.
On the defensive side of the ball, former Purdue linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley and Derrick Barnes asserted their presence in week 13. The New England Patriots defensive captain, Bentely has been a tackling machine this season. He led the Patriots in tackles for the fifth time this season, combining for eight total tackles against the Los Angeles Chargers. His ability to read plays, make crucial stops, and lead by example has propelled him to the top of the team's tackle charts.
Barnes also showcased his tackling prowess, leading the Lions in tackles for the second time this season. Barnes contributed nine total tackles and one tackle-for-loss in their win against the New Orleans Saints. His athleticism, football IQ, and relentless pursuit of excellence have endeared him to Lions fans and established him as a key pillar in Detroit's defense.
Other Boilermakers in the NFL
• George Karlaftis (Kansas City) – Two tackles, one solo vs. Green Bay
• Rondale Moore (Arizona) – Two targets, one six-yard reception vs. Pittsburgh
• David Bell (Cleveland) – Two targets, two receptions, 12 receiving yards vs. Los Angeles Rams
• Charlie Jones (Cincinnati) – Two punt returns for 11 total yards, three fair catches vs. Jacksonville
• Payne Durham (Tampa Bay) – Played 11 offensive and 12 special teams snaps vs. Carolina
• Markus Bailey (Cincinnati) – Played 56% of special teams snaps vs. Jacksonville
• Aidan O'Connell (Las Vegas) – Bye
• Jalen Graham (San Francisco) – Inactive
• Brycen Hopkins (Los Angeles Rams) – Inactive
• David Blough (Detroit) – Practice Squad
• Reese Taylor (Denver) – Practice Squad
• Anthony Brown (New York Jets) – Practice Squad
• Cory Trice (Pittsburgh) – Injured Reserve
Continuing his remarkable season, Miami Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert found the end zone once again on Sunday. Mostert carried the ball 11 time for 43 yards, one touchdown, and one eight-yard reception. With a league-leading 14 rushing touchdowns already to his name, Mostert stands just three touchdowns away from breaking the Dolphins' historic rushing touchdown record of 16 set by Ricky Williams in 2002. His explosive speed, elusive moves, and nose for the end zone have turned heads across the league, making him a formidable force in the Dolphins' backfield.
On the defensive side of the ball, former Purdue linebackers Ja'Whaun Bentley and Derrick Barnes asserted their presence in week 13. The New England Patriots defensive captain, Bentely has been a tackling machine this season. He led the Patriots in tackles for the fifth time this season, combining for eight total tackles against the Los Angeles Chargers. His ability to read plays, make crucial stops, and lead by example has propelled him to the top of the team's tackle charts.
Barnes also showcased his tackling prowess, leading the Lions in tackles for the second time this season. Barnes contributed nine total tackles and one tackle-for-loss in their win against the New Orleans Saints. His athleticism, football IQ, and relentless pursuit of excellence have endeared him to Lions fans and established him as a key pillar in Detroit's defense.
Other Boilermakers in the NFL
• George Karlaftis (Kansas City) – Two tackles, one solo vs. Green Bay
• Rondale Moore (Arizona) – Two targets, one six-yard reception vs. Pittsburgh
• David Bell (Cleveland) – Two targets, two receptions, 12 receiving yards vs. Los Angeles Rams
• Charlie Jones (Cincinnati) – Two punt returns for 11 total yards, three fair catches vs. Jacksonville
• Payne Durham (Tampa Bay) – Played 11 offensive and 12 special teams snaps vs. Carolina
• Markus Bailey (Cincinnati) – Played 56% of special teams snaps vs. Jacksonville
• Aidan O'Connell (Las Vegas) – Bye
• Jalen Graham (San Francisco) – Inactive
• Brycen Hopkins (Los Angeles Rams) – Inactive
• David Blough (Detroit) – Practice Squad
• Reese Taylor (Denver) – Practice Squad
• Anthony Brown (New York Jets) – Practice Squad
• Cory Trice (Pittsburgh) – Injured Reserve