Washington State Football: Update on former Cougars in the NFL 10/18

Cougars in the NFC

Joe Dahl, offensive guard Detroit Lions. A fifth-round draft pick in 2016 by the Lions, Dahl has seen limited action, starting in three games in 2017. A special teams player for most of his career, Dahl has only appeared in only one game during 2018.

Cole Madison, guard Green Bay Packers. Madison was selected in this year’s fifth round by the Packers. He was the only offensive lineman Green Bay drafted this year. Due to what his agent called a personal issue, he is currently on the Pack’s reserve/did not report list. Madison won’t be on the squad this year but GM Brian Gutekunst expects him to be part of the team next year.

Hercules Mata’afa, defensive end Minnesota Vikings. He signed as an undrafted free agent this year. On June 5, Mata’afa suffered a torn ACL so he is out for the season.

Destiny Vaeao, defensive tackle Philadelphia Eagles. Vaeao was signed as an unrestricted free agent by the Eagles in 2016. He played in all 16 games as a rookie, though he wasn’t a starter.  Vaeao made the first start of his career this year, in the opener against the Atlanta Falcons, where he had one sack. The Eagles are hoping he can develop his game to where he can be a steady pass rusher.

Deone Bucannon, linebacker Arizona Cardinals. A first-round draft pick by Arizona in 2014, Buchanon has been a starter for the Cardinals most of his career. He has 12 tackles so far this season including six against the Seattle Seahawks in last Sunday’s 20-17 loss. Buchannon has two interceptions and six sacks in his career.

The “moneybacker” missed four games last year because of an ankle injury.