Mountaineer Excellence Continues As 11 App State Alumni Thriving Across NFL Rosters

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The reach of Appalachian State’s football program extends from the Blue Ridge Mountains to NFL stadiums nationwide, with an impressive 11 former Mountaineers currently making their mark across professional rosters. Leading this distinguished group is Arizona Cardinals linebacker Akeem Davis-Gaither, whose consistent performances continue building on his stellar debut season, highlighted by another impactful showing in Sunday’s victory over the Carolina Panthers.

Current NFL Mountaineers by Team

Active Contributors:

• Akeem Davis-Gaither – Arizona Cardinals (LB)
• Kendall Lamm – Miami Dolphins (OL)
• Nick Hampton – Los Angeles Rams (OLB)
• D’Marco Jackson – Chicago Bears (LB)
• Sam Martin – Carolina Panthers (P)
• Ryan Neuzil – Atlanta Falcons (OL)

Practice Squad Development:

• Tyrek Funderburk – Minnesota Vikings (CB)
• Shemar Jean-Charles – Seattle Seahawks (CB)
• Ahmani Marshall – Cleveland Browns (RB)

Injury Recovery:

• Cooper Hodges – Jacksonville Jaguars (OL)
• Jalen McLeod – Jacksonville Jaguars (LB)

Week 2 Standout Performances

Akeem Davis-Gaither – Arizona Cardinals (Linebacker) The versatile defender continues establishing himself as a foundational piece of Arizona’s defense, recording six tackles while maintaining his dual-phase excellence. His impact extended across 62% of defensive snaps and 64% of special teams opportunities, including a crucial quarterback hurry on Carolina’s Bryce Young during the Cardinals’ 27-22 triumph. Davis-Gaither’s consistency in his second consecutive start demonstrates the reliability that made him a valuable offseason acquisition.

Ryan Neuzil – Atlanta Falcons (Center) The former Mountaineer delivered a masterclass performance in pass protection, anchoring Atlanta’s offensive line through every snap of their commanding 22-6 Sunday Night Football victory over Minnesota. Neuzil’s exceptional technique earned him the team’s highest Pro Football Focus grade (83.6) among all offensive players while allowing zero sacks throughout the contest. His precision blocking created the foundation for Bijan Robinson’s explosive 168 scrimmage yards, showcasing the impact of elite center play.

Sam Martin – Carolina Panthers (Punter) The veteran specialist continued demonstrating the consistency that has defined his NFL career, executing two punts with typical precision—one landing inside the crucial 20-yard line while another traveled 60 yards downfield. Martin’s game management skills shone brightest during a perfectly executed onside kick late in the contest, providing Carolina with a legitimate opportunity to secure victory. His reliability extended to holding duties, where he handled both a 27-yard field goal attempt and extra point conversion flawlessly.

Supporting Cast Making Impact

Nick Hampton – Los Angeles Rams (Outside Linebacker) Contributing across 23% of defensive opportunities and 61% of special teams snaps, Hampton’s disciplined play helped secure the Rams’ victory over Tennessee. His consistent special teams excellence continues providing valuable depth for Los Angeles.

D’Marco Jackson – Chicago Bears (Linebacker) The second-year contributor logged significant special teams action, participating in 59% of coverage units during Chicago’s challenging loss to Detroit. Jackson’s development continues as he establishes his role within the Bears’ system.

Kendall Lamm – Miami Dolphins (Offensive Line) Making his season debut against New England, Lamm contributed on 18% of special teams snaps as a blocking specialist. His veteran presence provides Miami with experienced depth across multiple special teams units.

Development Pipeline Continues

Tyrek Funderburk earned his opportunity with Minnesota after being signed September 11, following his developmental season with Tampa Bay. His journey from the Buccaneers to the Vikings demonstrates the league’s recognition of his potential.

Shemar Jean-Charles maintains his position on Seattle’s practice squad after being re-signed in late August, positioning himself for potential elevation throughout the season.

Ahmani Marshall secured his spot on Cleveland’s practice squad as an undrafted free agent, keeping alive his professional aspirations through the developmental pathway.

Recovery Updates

Cooper Hodges continues his rehabilitation process on Jacksonville’s injured reserve, working toward recovery from the knee injury that concluded his previous season. His dedication to returning to full health represents the determination that defined his App State career.

Jalen McLeod, the three-year App State contributor, progresses through his recovery timeline following the lower-body injury sustained during August practices. His injured reserve placement includes eligibility for later-season return, providing hope for meaningful 2024 contributions to Jacksonville’s defense.

The App State Legacy

This NFL representation underscores Appalachian State’s evolution into a legitimate pipeline for professional talent. From Pro Bowl-caliber centers to reliable special teams contributors, these 11 former Mountaineers demonstrate the program’s ability to develop players who excel at football’s highest level, carrying the lessons learned in Boone to stadiums across America.