Auburn Tigers in the NFL: Derick Hall recovers fumble for TD, Tank Bigsby has career day in London

Former Auburn players made their presences felt across the NFL this week, with outside linebacker Derick Hall’s standout fumble recovery touchdown leading the way. Hall, who started for the Seattle Seahawks, delivered a game-changing play during Seattle’s 31-14 victory, while several other Auburn alumni, including kicker Anders Carlson, also made notable contributions.

Derick Hall has breakout moment with Seahawks

In what was arguably the most impactful play of the week by an Auburn alumnus, Hall turned a defensive highlight into points for the Seahawks. Early in the fourth quarter, Hall scooped up a fumble and returned it 36 yards for a touchdown, extending Seattle’s lead to 31-14 with 12:46 remaining. The fumble recovery and touchdown were the first of Hall’s NFL career, showcasing his ability to be a game-changer on defense.

Hall also recorded one tackle and a quarterback hit in a solid all-around performance. As he continues to develop in his rookie season, his performance against the Atlanta Falcons marked a key milestone in what looks to be a promising NFL career.

Anders Carlson returns with career-long FG

Anders Carlson made a triumphant return to the NFL on Sunday, suiting up for the San Francisco 49ers after being signed to their practice squad earlier in the week. Carlson wasted no time making an impact, connecting on a career-long 55-yard field goal late in the first quarter during San Francisco’s 28-18 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.

This field goal was Carlson’s longest in the NFL, surpassing his previous record of 53 yards set in 2023 with the Green Bay Packers. In addition to the 55-yarder, Carlson made a 24-yard field goal as the first half ended, showcasing his precision and leg strength.

However, Carlson’s return wasn’t entirely smooth. After a 49ers touchdown early in the second half, his extra-point attempt hit the left upright and was no good. Carlson’s struggles with extra points have been well-documented—he led the NFL in missed extra points as a rookie in 2023. Despite this, his overall performance was a positive sign as he looks to solidify a spot on an NFL roster.

Daniel Carlson has perfect performance for Raiders

While Anders Carlson grabbed headlines with his career-long field goal, his brother Daniel Carlson quietly delivered a perfect kicking performance for the Las Vegas Raiders. Carlson went 5/5 on field goals during the Raiders’ 20-15 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, accounting for all of the Raiders’ points.

While Las Vegas struggled offensively, Carlson remained dependable, continuing his streak of consistent performances that have made him one of the NFL’s top kickers.

Tank Bigsby has career day for Jaguars

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Tank Bigsby turned in another career-best performance, rushing for 118 yards and two touchdowns on 26 carries in the Jaguars’ 32-16 win over the New England Patriots. Bigsby’s powerful running game helped Jacksonville control the tempo, and his two touchdowns, including the game-sealing score late in the fourth quarter, continued to elevate his status as a key contributor for the Jaguars.

Bigsby’s 118 rushing yards and 26 carries were both career highs, while his two touchdowns matched a previous career-best. The rookie running back has become a major part of Jacksonville’s offense, providing a reliable ground presence that has helped the Jaguars remain competitive in the AFC.

Other notable Auburn alumni performances

Jonathan Jones: The New England Patriots cornerback started against the Jaguars and registered two tackles in the Patriots' defensive effort. Jones continues to be a reliable presence in the Patriots' secondary.

Daniel Thomas: Jaguars safety Daniel Thomas didn’t record any stats during Jacksonville’s win but remains a key contributor on special teams, providing valuable support in coverage units.

Darius Slayton: The New York Giants wide receiver started against the Philadelphia Eagles, hauling in an 11-yard reception. Slayton's consistent play has kept him a key target for the Giants, though offensive struggles limited his opportunities.

Carlton Davis: Starting at cornerback for the Detroit Lions, Davis made three tackles in the Lions' 24-17 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Davis continues to be a critical part of the Lions’ secondary.

Nehemiah Pritchett: In his first NFL start, the Seahawks cornerback made an impressive debut, recording five tackles. Pritchett showed great promise in his expanded role, solidifying his spot in the Seahawks’ defense with a strong performance against the Falcons.