20 players who will be X-factors in the 2026 NFL playoffs

Adams has missed time down the stretch due to a hamstring injury, but the Rams should have him back for their playoff run. The veteran hasn't been as explosive as Puka Nacua, but leads the NFL in receiving scores.

Whether Brown has lost a step or the Eagles just aren't getting him the ball is up for debate, but he remains a game-changer. He surpassed 1,000 yards for the sixth time this season, and can add a spark to what has been an anemic Eagles offense.

Burden has come on late in the year with Rome Odunze injured, including an eight-catch, 138-yard performance in Week 17. His continued breakout will be key for the Bears' offense to make a run in the playoffs.

Collins is the most explosive weapon on the Texans' offense, but sat out Week 18 to get healthy. The Texans desperately need him to help the offense in the playoffs.

Buffalo's offense has been somewhat of a disappointment this season, but Cook has been an exception. The talented running back led the league in rushing and will be relied on in January.

Dean has missed significant time due to injury, but has made a difference when on the field. Over his first 10 games, he recorded 55 tackles and 44 sacks. Philly's defense has been elite with Dean on the field, and it will need to continue against some explosive NFC offenses.

New England's defense has taken a big step forward, and Gonzalez's performance has been a big reason. He's been one of the top corners in the league, making the Pro Bowl and allowing just over 500 yards in coverage.

Hampton missed a big portion of his rookie season to injury, but has been up to the test when healthy. He had 737 yards from scrimmages and five scores in his first nine games, and will be counted on to spur a Chargers offense that's shorthanded on the offensive line.

Harvey has seen more playing time as a rookie as the year has progressed, closing in on 1,000 yards from scrimmage late in the year. For a Broncos defense that lacks explosion, Harvey is a key cog.

Henderson has upstaged teammate Rhamondre Stevenson as New England's lead back as a rookie, seeing a full workload in the second half of the season. The Patriots are excited to see Drake Maye in his first playoffs, but Henderson will also be very impactful.

Hines-Allen is one of the true faces of the Jaguars franchise, now in his seventh season. He's been consistent as a pass rusher and will be counted on to hold up the Jacksonville defense.

Landman has been a difference-making addition for the Rams' defense with over 100 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles. Much of the attention is on the Rams' offense, but Landman and the defense could determine if the team is able to make another Super Bowl run.

Lawrence revitalized his career this season on an elite Seahawks defense. He made his fifth Pro Bowl, with six sacks and two touchdowns. His continued strong play will be a key to Seattle's success.

With Joe Mixon sidelined this season, Marks has stepped up in his rookie season. He neared 1,000 yards from scrimmage and will be a major player for the Texans in January.

Pearsall wasn't able to fully capitalize on his larger role this season due to injuries, but was still productive with nearly 60 yards per game in the games he played. After getting healthy late in the year, Pearsall will get a lot of attention in the playoffs.

Acquired from New Orleans at the trade deadline, Shaheed has already made a difference for the Seahawks on special teams. The explosive returner gives the Seahawks an advantage in special teams.

Denver's defense has been elite this season, despite Surtain missing time due to injury. They've played even better with him in the lineup, and will rely on him to cover the opposing team's top weapon in the playoffs.

Washington's emergence has been a major surprise this season, becoming a big part of the offense while Brian Thomas has struggled and Travis Hunter has been sidelined. With the strides the team has made under head coach Liam Coen, they will count on Washington to continue his production.

Watson is a unique deep threat, but injuries have constantly disrupted his career. He's had a solid string of health and production late in the year, and will be important for the banged up Packers in the playoffs.

Williams is arguably the best offensive lineman in football, but a hamstring injury has sidelined him late in the year. San Francisco desperately needs Williams to get healthy if it is to make noise in January.