The NFL season is hitting that exciting stage where every game feels a little more intense, and every play matters a bit more. The trade deadline is behind us, the playoff picture is starting to take shape, and teams are gearing up to make their push through November and December. But it’s not just about the MVP contenders like Lamar Jackson or Saquon Barkley—other key players will be just as crucial to their teams’ playoff hopes.
We’ve picked out a mix of established stars, rising talents, and under-the-radar contributors who are poised to make a real difference down the stretch. These players might not be leading the MVP race, but they’ll be showing up big when their teams need them most.
8. DeAndre Hopkins – Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs’ thrilling overtime win over Tampa Bay put a spotlight on DeAndre Hopkins’ impact on Kansas City’s high-powered offense. Catching eight passes for 86 yards and scoring twice, Hopkins reminded everyone that he’s still a polished route runner and a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes.
As Hopkins continues to get comfortable in Andy Reid’s offense, games like the one against Tampa could become routine. With defenses focused on Travis Kelce, Hopkins is primed to play an essential role as a secondary option. The Chiefs’ playoff run could very well depend on how frequently Hopkins can deliver big performances like that one.
7. Zay Flowers – Baltimore Ravens
Zay Flowers is making waves in Baltimore. While Lamar Jackson may be grabbing headlines, Flowers has been quietly putting up some of the best numbers of any receiver in the league over the past month. Since Week 5, Flowers has amassed 530 receiving yards, with an impressive 264 coming after the catch. He’s averaging 16.1 yards per reception (second in the league among receivers with at least 30 targets), and a staggering 75.8% of his catches have resulted in either a first down or a touchdown.
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As Jackson keeps marching toward a potential MVP season, Flowers deserves a lot of credit for his consistent production. Defenses focusing solely on stopping Jackson may find themselves burned by Flowers’ big-play ability, making him one of the Ravens’ most valuable assets as they push for the postseason.
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6. Jalen Carter – Philadelphia Eagles
Philadelphia’s defensive resurgence in recent weeks has been led by rookie defensive tackle Jalen Carter. With 28 pressures and an 11.7% pressure rate through eight games, Carter has brought a new level of intensity to the Eagles’ pass rush. Since Week 6, he’s tallied 15 pressures and three sacks, raising his pressure rate to 12% during that span.
The Eagles’ defense has been dominant, leading the league in sacks (16) and boasting the second-highest sack rate (11.8%) since Carter started turning up the heat. His presence inside allows Philadelphia’s edge rushers to attack more freely, making the entire defensive front a nightmare for opposing offenses. Carter’s influence could be the difference as the Eagles aim to make a deep playoff run.
5. Trey Hendrickson – Cincinnati Bengals
If Cincinnati is going to make a serious playoff push, Trey Hendrickson will be a massive factor on defense. Hendrickson leads the NFL with 11 sacks and 51 pressures, and he’s proven to be especially clutch on crucial downs, with a 19.1% pressure rate on third and fourth downs. His ability to get after the quarterback and disrupt the pocket is unmatched among his peers.
As the Bengals’ offense tries to find its groove, Hendrickson’s pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be essential in getting the ball back to Joe Burrow and company. His presence on the field could be Cincinnati’s ticket to another postseason appearance.
4. Kerby Joseph – Detroit Lions
Detroit’s defense has been surprisingly effective this year, thanks in no small part to standout safety Kerby Joseph. Joseph leads the NFL in interceptions with six, and opposing quarterbacks are completing just 47.4% of their passes when throwing his way. Joseph has even taken one of his interceptions to the house while allowing zero touchdowns when he’s the primary defender.
With an eye-popping passer rating of just 14.5 allowed, Joseph has become one of the league’s most feared defensive backs. As Detroit makes a run at the playoffs, Joseph’s ability to shut down the passing game will be critical for the Lions’ success.
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3. T.J. Hockenson – Minnesota Vikings
T.J. Hockenson is back, and just in time for the Vikings. Hockenson returned from a knee injury to record three catches for 27 yards, shaking off some rust as he gets back into the swing of things. Last season, he had 95 catches for 960 yards and five touchdowns in just 15 games, numbers the Vikings are hoping he can replicate as they make their playoff push.
Hockenson’s return adds another weapon to the Vikings’ arsenal alongside Justin Jefferson and rookie Jordan Addison. He’s essentially a trade deadline acquisition for Minnesota, and his playmaking ability could be a game-changer for the Vikings as they chase a postseason spot.
2. Jared Verse – Los Angeles Rams
Jared Verse may only be a rookie, but he’s quickly establishing himself as one of the NFL’s most disruptive pass rushers. He ranks second among players with 150+ pass-rushing snaps with a pressure rate of 20.3%, and he’s already accumulated 39 pressures. While his sack total (3.5) might not fully reflect his impact, Verse’s relentless pursuit of the quarterback is a big reason the Rams’ defense has been formidable.
Verse’s potential for the second half of the season is huge. If his pressures start converting into sacks, he could be the x-factor that pushes Los Angeles toward the NFC West title. Alongside Byron Young and Kobie Turner, Verse is part of a Rams front that can make life miserable for opposing offenses.
1. Austin Ekeler – Washington Commanders
Austin Ekeler may not be the go-to star in Washington, but he’s been a reliable contributor in a highly efficient offense. Ekeler has 282 rushing yards at an impressive 5.6 yards per carry and has also chipped in 248 receiving yards, averaging 11.3 yards per catch. Though he’s not the primary ball carrier or pass-catcher, his versatility makes him invaluable to a Commanders offense that’s currently leading the league in points and yards per possession.
Ekeler’s ability to open up the offense with his running and pass-catching skills gives Washington flexibility and depth on offense. As the Commanders make a push for the playoffs, they’ll need Ekeler to stay healthy and keep providing that spark.
