Courtesy: Detroit Lions

Sunday marked a day of firsts for former Hillsdale Charger wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa: his NFL debut, his first NFL reception, and, most memorably, his first NFL touchdown.

“TeSlaa’s catch was amazing,” Athletic Director John Tharp said. “It demonstrates his elite talent level, hands, body awareness, and concentration. We are proud of Isaac and the man that he is.”

The celebration came as the Detroit Lions dropped their season opener 27-13 to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field Sept. 7. But even in defeat, TeSlaa contributed a highlight that gave Lions fans something to cheer about. 

With just under four minutes left in the fourth quarter, TeSlaa hauled in his first career NFL touchdown.

After scoring 6 points in the first three quarters, the Lions’ offense put a drive together, but were facing a 4th and 3 at the Packers’ 13-yard line. Quarterback Jared Goff placed the ball just beyond the outstretched hands of Packers defensive back Carrington Valentine. TeSlaa, adjusting mid-air, reached back with one hand and somehow secured the catch in the back of the end zone, barely getting his two feet in bounds.

TeSlaa’s catch took the internet by storm. It racked up millions of views across social media platforms. But for his old teammates, it was nothing new.

“Isaac’s been making plays like that since day one,” said former Hillsdale teammate Dravyn Spies ‘25. “We always expected it, so seeing it on the NFL stage just feels like the rest of the world finally caught up. He’s built for moments like that.”

Junior wide receiver Shea Ruddy echoed that sentiment. 

“I watched it live on TV and I was genuinely blown away,” Ruddy said. “It’s pretty cool to think that guys on the team played with him. It just shows you that talent can come from Hillsdale.”