After the conclusion of Week 8 of the NFL season, a new array of former NC State football alumni have made an impact throughout the league.
Here are this week’s top NFL Pack Pros.
Jakobi Meyers, Las Vegas Raiders
A bright spot for the Las Vegas Raiders in their loss to the Kansas City Chiefs was wide receiver Jakobi Meyers. As a starter for the Raiders, Meyers has proven himself to be a reliable target and made positive contributions to a struggling Vegas squad.
Meyers had his best game of the 2024 season thus far, with six receptions for 52 yards and one touchdown in the 27-20 loss. He averaged 8.7 yards per catch and had a long of 17. His PFF was his highest grade of the season at 75.3. Meyers is emerging as the Raiders’ number-one option at the receiving position after the departure of Davante Adams.
Russell Wilson, Pittsburgh Steelers
After achieving victory in his first career start as a Steeler, quarterback Russell Wilson marched into “Monday Night Football” and continued to prove head coach Mike Tomlin right for starting him over Justin Fields.
Wilson and the Steelers moved the ball consistently throughout the game, giving his team plenty of opportunities to put points on the board. In a 26-18 Pittsburgh win against the New York Giants, Wilson was 20-28 for 278 yards and a touchdown.
Earlier in the season, there was a big debate about who should start for the Steelers at quarterback. Wilson’s performance against the Giants helps his case as the Steelers now have the sole lead in the AFC North with a record of 6-2.
Jacoby Brissett, New England Patriots
After Patriots starting quarterback Drake Maye suffered a concussion early against the New York Jets, it was up to quarterback Jacoby Brissett to come in and lead the Patriots to victory. Playing against one of the top defenses in the NFL was going to be a challenge for Brissett, as the Patriots currently have the lowest-ranked offense in the NFL.
Despite the challenges, Brissett led the Patriots to victory, throwing 15-24 for 132 yards while rushing for 11. Due to concussion protocol, Jacoby will be the New England starter going forward until Maye is fully cleared.
Germaine Pratt and BJ Hill, Cincinnati Bengals
Despite the Bengals’ defense allowing 37 points to the Philadelphia Eagles, the bright spots on the defense included linebacker Germaine Pratt and defensive tackle B.J. Hill. Pratt had nine total tackles and Hill had six. Pratt’s nine stops tied for the team lead, and Hill recorded a PFF grade of 85.2, which was the highest on the team during Week 8 and his personal high for the season.
The Bengals have struggled through the first half of the season, and after a 37-17 defeat, they currently sit at 3-5. In a very tough AFC North division, the Pack alumni have been consistent in helping Cincinnati stay competitive.
