5 backups who could have a lot to say in 2025 NFL playoffs feat. Gus Edwards

All 14 teams in the NFL playoffs would ideally like to showcase their biggest stars, but that's not always the way it works out. Roster depth could have a major say in the outcomes of some of the postseason games, as certain backups could be called upon to play larger roles. Here are five of them to keep a close eye on.

Backups that could have impact on NFL playoffs

Gus Edwards

#1 - Jaylen Warren

Najee Harris struggled down the final stretch of the 2024 NFL season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He hasn't rushed for 100 yards in any of his last nine games and has recorded 20 or fewer receiving yards in each of the final five weeks of the season. Jaylen Warren offers more explosive upside, so the Steelers may give him an opportunity to be a difference-maker in the playoffs.

#2 - Austin Ekeler

Brian Robinson Jr. also had an uninspiring finish to the 2024 season with the Washington Commanders this year. He failed to eclipse 65 rushing yards in any of his previous four outings and was held without a touchdown in all of them. Austin Ekeler has flashed his upside during the course of the season and is a significantly better receiver out of the backfield, so he could play a major role in the playoffs.

#3 - Gus Edwards

Gus Edwards opened the year as the starting running back for the LA Chargers but was quickly surpassed by JK Dobbins on the depth chart. The issue with Dobbins is that he is often injured, including being questionable to play during the wild-card round with another leg injury. Even if Dobbins does play, it's likely that Edwards will get an opportunity at significant touches.

#4 - Isaiah Likely

Mark Andrews serves as the starting tight end for the Baltimore Ravens, but Isaiah Likely still had a solid season, including a career-high six touchdowns. With Zay Flowers already ruled out for the wild-card round, other pass catchers will need to step up for Lamar Jackson. Likely is one of the prime candidates to do so, with more two-tight-end formations a real possibility.

#5 - Dontayvion Wicks

Christian Watson will be unable to play during the wild-card round of the NFL playoffs due to an injury. This opens the door for Dantayvion Wicks to play a larger role in the Green Bay Packers' offense. He has performed well in his limited opportunities at extended work but has been buried on a depth chart with a ton of talent, so now could be his real time to shine.