Vols in the NFL Playoffs: Former Tennessee Athletes Set to Compete in Divisional Round

As the NFL playoffs heat up and the race for Super Bowl LVIII intensifies, former University of Tennessee football players are making their presence known in the postseason. Tennessee has long been a breeding ground for NFL talent, and this year’s playoffs feature a strong contingent of former Volunteers looking to make a mark in the Divisional Round. These athletes, who have honed their skills under the bright lights of Neyland Stadium, are now shining in the NFL as they battle for a chance at ultimate glory. Let’s take a closer look at some of the former Tennessee athletes who are set to compete in the NFL playoffs and examine their journey from Knoxville to the NFL.

The Vols’ Legacy in the NFL Playoffs

The University of Tennessee has a rich history of producing NFL-caliber talent, with players such as Peyton Manning, Reggie White, and Jason Witten becoming legends of the game. The Volunteers have consistently produced players who make an impact in the NFL, and many of those players have played significant roles in the postseason.

In recent years, Tennessee alumni have become even more prevalent in the league, with several former Vols playing key roles on teams that have made deep playoff runs. Whether it’s a standout running back, an explosive wide receiver, or a dominant defensive force, the Vols continue to be well-represented in the NFL playoffs.

This year’s Divisional Round is no different, with several former Tennessee players making their presence felt as they chase the ultimate prize in professional football. Here are a few notable Vols who are gearing up for an exciting postseason run.

Key Players to Watch:

1. Derrick Henry – Running Back, Tennessee Titans

Arguably the most recognizable Tennessee alum in the NFL right now, Derrick Henry is a force to be reckoned with in the postseason. The 2020 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, Henry is known for his combination of size, speed, and power, making him one of the most dominant running backs in the league. After a strong regular-season performance, Henry’s ability to take over a game is more important than ever for the Titans as they make their playoff push.

Henry’s playoff resume includes several memorable performances, including a dominant 195-yard effort in the 2019 Divisional Round against the Baltimore Ravens. The Titans will need Henry to replicate that level of production if they hope to advance deep into the postseason. As the heart and soul of the Titans’ offense, Henry’s performance will likely determine how far Tennessee can go in the playoffs.

2. Alvin Kamara – Running Back, New Orleans Saints

Another former Vol making waves in the NFL is Alvin Kamara, a dynamic running back for the New Orleans Saints. Kamara has established himself as one of the most versatile players in the league, excelling as both a runner and a receiver out of the backfield. His ability to make plays in space, combined with his quickness and vision, makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Kamara has been a key contributor for the Saints throughout the season, and his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game will be critical as New Orleans takes on tough opponents in the playoffs. Kamara’s skill set has allowed him to perform well in the postseason, and he’ll look to continue that trend as he pushes for another deep playoff run with the Saints.

3. Justin Hunter – Wide Receiver, Miami Dolphins

Though not as well-known as some of his former Tennessee counterparts, Justin Hunter is another Vols alum who has carved out a successful career in the NFL. Now playing for the Miami Dolphins, Hunter brings size and speed to the wide receiver position. While he may not be a primary target on the Dolphins’ offense, Hunter’s ability to stretch the field and make big plays could play a pivotal role in the Dolphins’ postseason success.

Hunter’s deep-threat ability has often made him a matchup problem for defenses, and he could emerge as a key weapon for Miami in the playoffs. As the Dolphins face off against some of the league’s toughest teams, Hunter’s contributions on offense could make the difference in key games.

4. Jason Witten – Tight End, Las Vegas Raiders

Although Jason Witten has retired from the NFL, his impact on the league and his legacy as one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history cannot be overstated. Witten, who spent the majority of his career with the Dallas Cowboys before finishing his playing days with the Las Vegas Raiders, is a true example of a Tennessee legend making a lasting impact at the professional level.

Even in retirement, Witten’s influence can still be felt across the league. His success as a tight end, which includes 11 Pro Bowl selections and over 1,000 career receptions, places him among the best players to ever play the position. While he is not actively competing in the postseason this year, Witten’s success story is a testament to the talent that has emerged from the University of Tennessee.

Rising Stars in the NFL Playoffs:

5. Derek Barnett – Defensive End, Philadelphia Eagles

Derek Barnett is another former Vol making a name for himself in the NFL. As a defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles, Barnett has become an integral part of the team’s pass rush. Known for his speed off the edge and relentless pursuit of the quarterback, Barnett has established himself as one of the top young defensive players in the league.

Barnett has been a key contributor on the Eagles’ defense, helping to fuel their strong performance this season. In the playoffs, where pressure and big plays are magnified, Barnett’s ability to disrupt the quarterback could be a deciding factor in the Eagles’ playoff success. Philadelphia’s defense has been one of the most dominant in the league, and Barnett’s role in that unit will be critical to the Eagles’ postseason aspirations.

6. Jalen Reeves-Maybin – Linebacker, Detroit Lions

Jalen Reeves-Maybin, now playing for the Detroit Lions, is a versatile linebacker who has earned recognition for his ability to contribute both against the run and in coverage. The Lions’ defense, though not among the league’s elite, has shown significant improvement this season, and Reeves-Maybin has been a key part of that progress. His speed and ability to cover ground make him an important piece of the puzzle for Detroit as they look to make a run in the playoffs.

While Reeves-Maybin is often flying under the radar compared to other former Vols in the NFL, his value in the postseason cannot be overstated. A player who can make plays in key moments will be crucial for Detroit’s success in the playoffs, and Reeves-Maybin’s contributions could help propel the Lions to an upset victory.

The Vols’ Impact on NFL Playoff Teams

The University of Tennessee’s legacy in the NFL is evident through the numerous players who have made their mark on the biggest stage in football. Whether it’s through explosive performances on offense, lockdown defense, or special teams contributions, former Vols continue to represent their alma mater at the highest level.

As the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs unfolds, fans of Tennessee football can take pride in the fact that several former Vols are playing key roles for their teams. These athletes are not just products of their college experience; they are among the best the NFL has to offer. Whether it’s Derrick Henry’s bulldozing runs, Alvin Kamara’s electrifying plays, or Derek Barnett’s relentless pass rush, Tennessee’s influence on the NFL postseason is undeniable.

As the playoffs continue and these athletes make their pushes for a Super Bowl title, one thing is certain: the University of Tennessee will continue to be a significant force in the NFL, producing elite talent year after year. With each big play, these former Vols are helping to solidify the school’s legacy in the professional ranks, ensuring that the Tennessee Volunteers remain a key part of the NFL landscape for years to come.