Week 9 of the NFL season has wrapped up following Monday Night Football in Minneapolis.
On paper, this week's slate of games wasn't as appealing as usual. But as the NFL always seems to do, it delivered some classic games and big moments throughout the weekend. And of course, a few former Iowa football stars found a way to make their mark.
From first career touchdowns to savvy performances from veterans, here’s a look at some of the best performances from former Hawkeyes in Week 9:
Kaleb Johnson, Green Bay Packers
LET'S GO
— Green Bay Packers (@packers) November 8, 2026
📺: FOX pic.twitter.com/gE2sDiD9Y2
Johnson stepped up in a huge way for the Packers in their 45-27 win over the Patriots. He finished with 14 carries for 68 yards and a first-career NFL touchdown. He powered his way in from two yards out to pad Green Bay's lead
in the second quarter. He also broke off a 34-yard run later in the game, showcasing the big-play ability Iowa fans grew to love.
Johnson's path to this point has been long. The Steelers cut him just a year after drafting him in the third round. Now he seems to have found a home in Green Bay. And with Josh Jacobs set to miss a lot of time with a foot injury, Johnson may only see his role increase in the coming weeks.
George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers
3rd-and-short, 49ers go deep. Purdy to Jordan Watkins for the rookie's first career touchdown.
— Chris Wilson (@cgawilson) November 8, 2026
BUT OH MY GEORGE.
The George Kittle Blocking Clinic is in session. Blocks 2/3 of the Raiders line.
Be fast & keep your head on a swivel, bc Kittle's out here stealing blocks. Legend. pic.twitter.com/euafsgRswu
Kittle put together a solid day in the receiving game in the 49ers' 38-17 win over the Raiders. He finished with four receptions for 58 yards. But his biggest highlight of the day won't appear in the box score. Late in the third quarter, Kittle stayed in to block a deep shot to Jordan Watkins. He proceeded to handle multiple Raiders linemen, giving Brock Purdy enough time to find Watkins for a touchdown.
It's the small things that separate Kittle from the rest of the pack. He's a great receiver, but he has no problem doing the dirty work as well. There's a reason he's still one of the best tight ends in football.
Drew Stevens, Washington Commanders
Welcome to the Drew Stevens era.
— Grant Paulsen (@GrantPaulsen) November 9, 2026
🏈 16/19 on the season
🏈 12/12 inside of 50 yards
🏈 13/14 since Week 2 pic.twitter.com/fyzQEfhaTF
Stevens did his job on Sunday, despite the Commanders dropping a 20-13 game to the Rams. He nailed both of his field goal attempts and his long extra-point attempt. After a slow start to the season, the rookie kicker is beginning to find his rhythm in Washington.
He's made 13 of 14 field goals since Week 2, including a career-long 57-yarder against Seattle. He's been perfect from inside 50 yards this season. Being a kicker in the NFL isn't easy. Stevens is showing he's up to the task in recent weeks.
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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Iowa football in the NFL: Week 9 recap
