Georgia Tech Alumni Dominate NFL Fields: A Look at Their Impactful Performances
As the NFL regular season nears its climax, it’s time to shine a spotlight on the Georgia Tech alumni making waves in the league. In this edition of #ProJackets, we’ll dive into their standout performances, controversial trades, and the bold strides they’re making toward securing their futures in the NFL. But here’s where it gets controversial: are these players truly getting the recognition they deserve, or are they flying under the radar despite their undeniable impact?
Zeek Biggers (DT – Miami Dolphins): Proving His Worth
In just his first NFL season, Zeek Biggers is making a compelling case for his inclusion in the Miami Dolphins’ long-term plans. During Week 16, he delivered an impressive five tackles in only 25 snaps—his second-highest tackle count in seven games. This performance is particularly noteworthy given the Dolphins’ 45-21 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Interestingly, Miami’s record stands at 4-3 in games where Biggers plays, compared to 2-7 when he doesn’t. Could this be a coincidence, or is Biggers a silent game-changer? With just two weeks left in the regular season, he’ll need to maintain this momentum to solidify his spot in the defensive line rotation. Up next: a Week 17 showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Sunday at 1 p.m. on FOX).
Keion White (DE – San Francisco 49ers): Reigniting His Career
Since joining the 49ers mid-season, Keion White has been on a tear, recording a QB hit for the third consecutive week and his eighth hurry in just seven games. His performance in the Monday night victory over the Indianapolis Colts earned him his highest defensive PFF grade of the season. But here’s the part most people miss: the 49ers are 6-1 since acquiring White, and they’re now serious contenders for the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Was trading for White the missing piece San Francisco needed? He’ll look to continue his dominance in Week 17 against the Chicago Bears (Sunday at 8:20 p.m. on NBC/Peacock).
Harrison Butker (K – Kansas City Chiefs): The Reliable Scorer
In his ninth NFL season, Harrison Butker remains a steady force for the Chiefs. During Week 16, he accounted for all nine of Kansas City’s points in a 26-9 loss to the Tennessee Titans. As the Chiefs gear up for a pivotal Week 17 matchup against the Denver Broncos (Thursday at 8:25 p.m. on Prime Video), Butker’s consistency will be crucial in their playoff push.
Jackson Hawes (TE – Buffalo Bills): Rising to the Top
Jackson Hawes is having a breakout rookie season, highlighted by his Week 16 performance against the Cleveland Browns. With two catches for 26 yards, he was named the Bills’ No. 1 offensive player by PFF. Even more impressive? He’s now the top-ranked tight end in the NFL among players who’ve played all 15 games, with an 86.6 offensive grade—second only to George Kittle. The Bills are just one game behind the Patriots in the AFC East race and have already clinched a playoff berth. Can Hawes sustain this momentum in Week 17 against the Philadelphia Eagles (Sunday at 4:25 p.m. on FOX)?
Jordan Mason (RB – Minnesota Vikings): Steady Contributions
In his fourth NFL season, Jordan Mason continues to provide reliable support for the Vikings. During Week 16, he had two carries for five yards and one catch for six yards in their 16-13 victory over the New York Giants. He’ll aim to make a bigger impact in Week 17 against the Detroit Lions (Thursday at 4:30 p.m. on Netflix).
Juanyeh Thomas (S – Dallas Cowboys): A Season Cut Short
Unfortunately, Juanyeh Thomas’s third NFL season has been derailed by migraines, sidelining him for the remainder of the year. It’s a tough break for a player who showed promise earlier in the season.
Darren Waller (TE – Miami Dolphins): A Triumphant Return
Darren Waller’s comeback from retirement has been nothing short of remarkable. In Week 16, he recorded three catches for 40 yards in the Dolphins’ loss to the Bengals. With 283 yards and six touchdowns this season, he’s earned an 85.6 offensive grade from PFF—his best since his Pro Bowl year in 2020. Will Waller’s resurgence continue in Week 17 against the Buccaneers (Sunday at 1 p.m. on FOX)?
Practice Squad Standouts
Three former Jackets are honing their skills on practice squads: DL Adam Gotsis (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), TE E.J. Jenkins (Philadelphia Eagles), and OL Devin Cochran (Detroit Lions). Could one of them be the next breakout star?
Full Steam Ahead: Transforming Georgia Tech Athletics
Georgia Tech is embarking on a bold $500 million fundraising initiative to elevate its athletics program to championship contention. The Full Steam Ahead campaign will fund critical renovations to iconic facilities like Bobby Dodd Stadium, Zelnak Basketball Center, and O’Keefe Gymnasium, as well as provide operational support across all programs. This initiative raises a thought-provoking question: Can investments in infrastructure truly translate to on-field success? To learn more or contribute, visit Full Steam Ahead.
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Final Thoughts
As we celebrate the achievements of these Georgia Tech alumni, it’s clear they’re leaving their mark on the NFL. But what do you think? Are these players getting the recognition they deserve, or are they still flying under the radar? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your take!
