Rookies to watch in the NFL Playoffs

Nov 30, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Davante Adams (17) is tackled by New England Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan (26) after catching a pass in the first quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Davante Adams, WR, Green Bay Packers

The Packers’ first year receiver has burst onto the scene lately and could play an instrumental role in Green Bay’s postseason success. He had a few crucial catches against New England and was key in the Packers’ win – although he did drop a pass in the end zone that would’ve sealed the game. That’s why watching rookies is intriguing and exciting – you never know what you’ll get out of them. Adams is poised for a breakout game at some point, and what better time to have one than in the postseason.

While Adams “only” has 446 yards and three touchdowns, he has the capability of putting up huge performances. Take a look at that New England game: Adams had six catches for 121 yards. Opposing teams will try to take away Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb, which leaves Adams against whoever the opposing team’s third corner is. Adams will often be able to beat a lot of third cornerbacks, which should make him intriguing to watch in the postseason.

Martavis Bryant, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers

Emmanuel Sanders was never really a legitimate second receiver until he burst onto the scene with Denver this year. Meanwhile, in Bryant, the Steelers have found someone who is picking up the slack and more. Of course, Antonio Brown outranks Bryant in essentially every statistical category, but Bryant has only played ten games.

His 21.1 yards per catch average is right there with DeSean Jackson for tops in the league, and he has eight touchdowns in the last ten games for Pittsburgh. He has the longest touchdown of the season for the Steelers: 94 yards. Bryant is an explosive player who should be fun to watch in the postseason, especially in the Wild Card Round: the Steelers play the Ravens, who are without their top corner in Jimmy Smith – Bryant may be able to toast a banged-up secondary.

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