Mountaineers Making Their Mark In Our Week 3 NFL Performance Review

Image Courtesy Of App State Facebook

The strength of Appalachian State’s football program continues to progress throughout professional football, with an impressive 11 former Mountaineers currently occupying spots on NFL rosters. Leading this group is Carolina Panthers starting punter Sam Martin, whose consistent performance showed the caliber of talent that emerges from the Blue Ridge Mountains to compete at football’s highest level.

Current NFL Mountaineers Roster

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 3 Standout Performances

Sam Martin – Carolina Panthers (Starting Punter) The veteran specialist continued his exceptional start to the season, delivering another masterclass performance in Carolina’s dominant 30-0 victory over Atlanta. Martin’s precision was on full display as he executed three punts, placing two inside the crucial 20-yard line while achieving a season-long 54-yard boot without recording any touchbacks. His reliability extended beyond punting duties, as he flawlessly handled holding responsibilities for three extra points and three field goals, all of which sailed through the uprights. Martin’s consistency in all three phases of special teams play has quickly established him as an invaluable asset to the Panthers’ operation.

Ryan Neuzil – Atlanta Falcons (Starting Center) The former Mountaineer anchor continues setting the standard for offensive line excellence, playing every single offensive snap in Charlotte while maintaining his remarkable streak of protection. Through the first three weeks of the season, Neuzil has achieved perfection in pass protection, allowing zero quarterback hits and zero sacks while committing zero penalties. His technical precision and consistency provide the foundation that allows Atlanta’s offensive attack to function at its highest level, showing why elite center play remains one of football’s most undervalued yet essential skills.

Akeem Davis-Gaither – Arizona Cardinals (Starting Linebacker) Recording his third consecutive start, Davis-Gaither delivered his most impactful performance of the young season with eight tackles, including a crucial tackle for loss, during Arizona’s competitive battle with the San Francisco 49ers. His versatility shone through his extensive playing time, contributing across 80% of defensive snaps and 56% of special teams opportunities while adding two passes defended to his statistical line. Davis-Gaither’s ability to impact multiple phases of the game continues validating Arizona’s confidence in his every-down capabilities.

Supporting Cast Contributions

Kendall Lamm – Miami Dolphins (Offensive Line) The veteran lineman contributed to Miami’s efforts against Buffalo, participating in three special teams plays that showed his continued value as a reliable depth contributor. Lamm’s experience and versatility provide the Dolphins with the type of veteran presence that proves invaluable throughout a long NFL season.

Nick Hampton – Los Angeles Rams (Outside Linebacker) Hampton was inactive for the Rams’ challenging matchup against Philadelphia, despite his continued roster presence showing the organization’s confidence in his development and potential contributions as the season progresses.

D’Marco Jackson – Chicago Bears (Linebacker) Jackson remained inactive during Chicago’s impressive 31-14 victory over Dallas, but his roster spot demonstrates the Bears’ belief in his special teams capabilities and developmental potential within their defensive system.

Developmental Pipeline Progress

Tyrek Funderburk has found a new opportunity with Minnesota after the Vikings signed him on September 11, following his previous experience with Tampa Bay. His journey between organizations reflects the competitive nature of professional football while highlighting his perseverance and continued pursuit of NFL success.

Shemar Jean-Charles maintains his position on Seattle’s practice squad after being signed in late August, positioning himself for potential elevation as the Seahawks navigate their season and evaluate roster needs.

Ahmani Marshall secured his developmental opportunity with Cleveland’s practice squad as an undrafted free agent, keeping alive his professional aspirations while working to prove himself worthy of active roster consideration.

Injury Updates and Recovery Progress

Cooper Hodges continues his rehabilitation process on Jacksonville’s injured reserve list, working diligently toward recovery from the knee injury that concluded his previous season. 

Jalen McLeod, the accomplished three-year App State contributor, progresses through his recovery timeline following the lower-body injury sustained during August practice sessions. His injured reserve designation includes eligibility for later-season return, providing optimism for meaningful contributions to Jacksonville’s defense once he achieves full health.

The Continuing Legacy

This impressive NFL representation underscores Appalachian State’s continued evolution as a legitimate pipeline for professional football talent, with former Mountaineers contributing across every phase of the game at football’s highest level.