Week 10 in the NFL generally helps separate the contenders from the pretenders. This week, a handful of Latinos return to the gridiron after injuries, or to hold it down for others who are still recovering. Such is life in the NFL and for those looking to make an impact on the football Sabbath.
1
Ziggy Hood
When young Evander Hood’s abuelita couldn’t pronounce his first name, she gave him the nickname of her favorite cartoon character, ushering the cool moniker Ziggy Hood into the sports world. Originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, the defensive end will make his Chicago Bears debut this Sunday, as they challenge the Rams in St. Louis. The Texas native recently stood in solidarity with students at his alma mater, the University of Missouri, as they challenged racism on campus.
2
Jonathan Casillas
New York Giants linebacker Jonathan Casillas has won Super Bowls as a member of the New Orleans Saints and New England Patriots. The Boricua faces his former team this weekend when Tom Brady and the undefeated Patriots visit MetLife Stadium. The Giants have thwarted Brady on the game’s grandest stage on multiple occasions, and with the Patriots once again seeking perfection, this is a must-see game. Casillas’ insight should come in handy against his old squad.
3
Brian de la Puente
At 6’3″, 306 pounds, center Brian de la Puente can certainly fill a void. Washington certainly hopes so, as the veteran is expected to fill in for the injured Kory Lichtensteiger against the Saints. Although Washington’s offensive line has improved dramatically since last season, de la Punte’s versatility and high IQ adds another element to the team’s protection. Whether he’s starting or in a reserve role, expect de la Puente to come correct.
4
Kiko Alonso
When healthy, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Kiko Alonso is a proven playmaker on the defensive side of the ball. The son of a Cuban father and Colombian mother, Alonso arrived in Philly via trade and has already delivered one of the signature plays for the Eagles’ defense this season with a one-handed end zone interception against the Atlanta Falcons. With Jordan Hicks out for the season, Alonso has the opportunity to return to his rookie season pre-injury form against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
5
Matt Moore
Dolphins’ backup quarterback Matt Moore was the subject of ribbing from teammates last week after catching an inadvertent elbow from wide receiver Kenny Stills during practice. Moore endured surgery to repair his broken nose and according to starting QB Ryan Tannehille, is on his way to a career as a model. All jokes aside, Moore will suit up and be available against the Eagles this weekend, and with a 3-5 record, the Dolphins could do a lot worse.