The first week of the NFL preseason delivered two moments that perfectly captured the Big 12’s growing presence at the next level.
In Pittsburgh, two former Kansas State quarterbacks crossed paths in a way that resonated with Wildcat fans. Will Howard, now with the Steelers, was caught on the sidelines hyping up his former teammate in Manhattan, Skylar Thompson, after a dominant showing in the preseason.
The exchange was quick but genuine, with Howard showing visible excitement for his fellow K-State alum. Thompson, who has been fighting for a larger role in Miami over the past few years, is now delivering performances in Pittsburgh that have caught attention across the league.
Down in Houston, Iowa State fans got their own moment of pride. During the Texans’ first preseason game, one fan paused their television on a huddle shot that happened to feature three former Cyclones standing side by side. Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, and Xavier Hutchinson were all visible in the frame, a snapshot that symbolized Iowa State’s recent run of offensive talent making its way to the NFL.
The photo quickly circulated among Cyclone fans on social media.
While preseason games are often about evaluation and roster decisions, these moments reminded fans that the Big 12 continues to produce players who make an impact far beyond Saturdays. Whether it was two Kansas State quarterbacks sharing encouragement on an NFL sideline or three Iowa State receivers lining up together in the same huddle, the conference’s footprint was on full display.
For fans of the Wildcats and Cyclones, it was more than just a neat coincidence. It was a reminder that the talent developed in the Big 12 is earning opportunities and respect on the sport’s biggest stage.
