Sun Devils in the NFL: AFC Edition

As the NFL preseason winds down, let’s take a look at where all your favorite Sun Devils, young and old, stand.  There are currently 24 Sun Devils in the NFL. Here is a look at those currently on an AFC team.

Josh Barrett, New England Patriots – Barrett was claimed off of waivers by the Patriots on August 6 after being waived/injured with the Broncos. Had he cleared waivers he would’ve gone to the Broncos IR list. He doesn’t look to be much of a factor with the Patriots as he is limited by a shoulder injury. Barrett played in 14 games in 2009 recording 10 tackles. 

Todd Heap, Baltimore Ravens – Todd Heap has been a staple at TE for the Ravens. Heap is approaching 5,000 receiving yards and currently has 36 TD’s in the NFL.

Terrell Suggs, Baltimore Ravens – Suggs has helped anchor the feared Ravens defense alongside Ray Lewis. Currently in his 8^th NFL season, Suggs has proven to be one of the all-time most successful Sun Devils in the NFL. With 57 career sacks, T-Suggs has intimidated many QB’s throughout his career.

Paul Fanika, Cleveland Browns – Paul Fanika was originally drafted by the Eagles, played on their practice squad for 10 weeks before being signed to the Redskins active squad. He signed with the Browns in June 2010. 

Shawn Lauvao, Cleveland Browns – Lauvao was a third round pick by the Browns this year and enters his rookie season. He started in one preseason game on the OL.  You can follow his rookie blog here.

Troy Nolan, Houston Texans – Nolan spent his first year on the IR with the Texans.  He was drafted by the Texans in 2009 and signed a 4-yr contract. He is the 2^nd string FS sitting behind Eugene Wilson. It looks like a healthy Nolan will garner some playing time this year, whether it be in mop-up duty or special teams.

Mike Pollak, Indianapolis Colts – Pollak was a 2^nd round draft pick in 2008 by the Colts. He started 13 games as a rookie and 7 games in his 2^nd year.  He looks to continue starting this year at RG.

 Travis Goethel, Oakland Raiders – Travis was a 6^th round pick in this year’s draft and fits right in with the Raiders. Goethel sits 3^rd on the depth chart at MLB and most likely won’t contribute much this year.

Zach Miller, Oakland Raiders – Zach Miller is entering his 4^th season with the Raiders.  He has been one of the few consistencies of the Raiders offense and looks to benefit from a new starting QB in Jason Campbell. He has 7 career Touchdowns and just over 2000 yards.

Brandon Rodd, Oakland Raiders – Rodd is the backup RG for the Raiders and has yet to see any playing time in a regular season game. 

Mike Nixon, San Diego Padres…errr Chargers – Ex baseball player Mike Nixon signed with the Chargers after going undrafted. He is buried on the depth chart, but looks to get some minutes playing special teams. Nixon is a high IQ player with football intelligence and is a good fit for the Chargers.