Sunday was a good day for some former Washington players.
Arizona’s Colt McCoy lifted the Cardinals past the 49ers in a 31-17 victory in place of injured quarterback Kyler Murray, while Los Angeles Chargers kicker Dustin Hopkins drilled a 29-yarder in the final seconds to give his team a 27-24 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Even former Washington running back Adrian Peterson scored a touchdown in his debut for the Tennessee Titans, who beat the Los Angeles Rams in a 28-16 upset.
McCoy, who played for Washington from 2014 to 2019, starred as he went 22 of 26 for 249 yards and a touchdown. He was making his first start of the season with Murray sidelined with an ankle injury. The Cardinals added McCoy in the offseason, signing the journeyman to a one-year, $1.2 million contract. McCoy helped the Cardinals improve to 8-1.
COLT MCCOY!
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) November 7, 2021
NFL on FOX
pic.twitter.com/iQhlRDRAqV
Kyler Murray not necessary, Colt McCoy goes deep for a 50-yard completion Christian Kirkpic.twitter.com/oSgCDcJeSy
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 7, 2021
Hopkins’ success, in particular, stood out given that coach Ron Rivera released the kicker last month due to consistent struggles. Since signing with the Chargers, Hopkins hasn’t missed a field goal attempt — although he did miss an extra point attempt in Sunday’s win. But Hopkins redeemed himself late, nailing the game-winning kick.
Dustin Hopkins gives the @Chargers the lead with :02 left! #BoltUp pic.twitter.com/nGhzDZ3M12
— NFL (@NFL) November 7, 2021
As for Peterson, the 36-year-old’s production was limited, but he was still able to score in his first game of the season. The Titans signed Peterson, who spent last year with the Detroit Lions, last week when star running back Derrick Henry went on injured reserve with a fractured foot. Peterson got 10 carries and ran for 21 yards against a sturdy Rams defensive line.
Peterson’s touchdown was the 125th of his career, tying him with Walter Payton for 11th-most in NFL history.
“It’s a blessing,” he told reporters. “Here I am in a situation to continue to pass and approach guys that inspired me to be great and be the best that I can be.”
Peterson played for Washington for two seasons (2018, 2019) and was released prior to last season.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.