Former Iowa players register strong NFL Week 1 numbers
T.J. Hockenson and Noah Fant scored touchdowns, while Sam LaPorta and Lukas Van Ness also made notable contributions in the opening week of the 2026 season.
Four former Iowa football players featured prominently in the opening week of the 2026 NFL season, according to a recap published by Hawkeyes Wire and Yahoo Sports.
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson made four receptions for 36 yards and a touchdown in his team’s 39–22 win over the Green Bay Packers. The performance followed an injury-hit 2025 season.
Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta recorded five receptions for 48 yards in a 31–30 overtime victory over the New Orleans Saints.
Green Bay defensive end Lukas Van Ness finished the Packers’ loss with four tackles and a sack.
New Orleans tight end Noah Fant caught four passes for 33 yards and a touchdown against Detroit. His score brought the Saints within one point in overtime before New Orleans failed to convert a two-point attempt.
