Key players in the NFL Playoffs with zero postseason experience

It’s a common phrase used in sports to keep athletes from getting too high or too low in pressure situations. However, some players participating in the NFL playoffs really haven’t been there before, but will have massive say towards whether their team advances. We’ll take a look at a few postseason newbies to keep an eye this postseason, excluding rookies.

With starting tight end Mark Andrews lost for the season, Likely has stepped in admirably for the Pro Bowler. While not quite the established target, Likely is probably more athletic, which provides Lamar Jackson some wiggle room to find him in tight spots. He’ll be a critical piece to the puzzle during Baltimore’s playoff run.

This is Tagovailoa’s fourth season, but he was not available during the Dolphins’ lone playoff game last season due to a concussion. He’s played in well in big games during his college career, and Miami hopes that he’ll be able to put impressive contests together this postseason. The health of Miami’s skill players will go a long way in aiding Tagovailoa’s performance.

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One of the NFL’s breakout stars this season has been Williams, who entered the year in the shadows of Cam Akers. The second year back has been sensational for Los Angeles, causing problems for defenses who primarily worry about covering Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. Williams is setup to have strong playoff performances this year.

Swift did not play in the postseason during his first three seasons in the league with the Detroit Lions, but will have an important role in his playoff debut this year. Defenses will be concerned with Jalen Hurts’ running ability, so Swift’s elusiveness could make Philadelphia’s offense a multidimensional nightmare to stop.

He’s one of the most talented pass catchers in the NFL, but Pickens’ impact tends to come and go. Much of that inconsistency has to do with who is under center, but Pittsburgh can’t afford to make Pickens an afterthought in their playoff game-planning. His youth shouldn’t serve as an impediment when a play needs to be made.

Hutchinson is a Michigan native who has personally taken an interest in the Lions’ ascension this season. He’ll be motivated to bring his best to the field during the postseason, which is bad news for opposing offenses. His unique ability has the opportunity to force game-changing turnovers that could help Detroit go on a run.

This might be what Moore had in mind when he requested a trade from the New York Jets during the 2023 offseason. He now has a chance to shine on the biggest stage, with a team that is being pegged as one of the most dangerous in the NFL playoffs. Appreciative of his opportunity, Moore might have a moment or two in January and February.

It looked like the Stingley injury curse was going to derail the young cornerback’s career, but he’s bounced back quite nicely in his second season. The former top draft pick will match up with some of the game’s best wide receivers. Stingley can prove his worth in a major way during the postseason.