As of January 2025, the Auburn Tigers football program has produced numerous players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL, and many of those players continue to shine in the league’s postseason. Auburn’s rich history of producing NFL talent is on full display during the playoffs, with several former Tigers making key contributions to their respective teams. This article will provide an in-depth look at the remaining Auburn Tigers football alumni in the NFL playoffs, highlighting their journey to the postseason, their impact on their teams, and the significance of their careers in the NFL.
Overview of Auburn Tigers in the NFL
Auburn University has been a fertile ground for NFL talent, producing players who have made an impact at various positions. Over the years, players like Bo Jackson, Carnell “Cadillac” Williams, and Frank Gansz have made their mark in the league. However, the impact of Auburn football alumni on NFL rosters has only continued to grow. These players bring the hard-nosed, fast-paced, and dynamic football culture of Auburn to the NFL, often translating that passion into playoff-caliber performances.
In the 2024-2025 NFL season, several former Auburn Tigers are playing key roles for teams in the playoffs. Let’s take a closer look at these players, examining their backgrounds, roles on their teams, and their postseason prospects.
Key Auburn Tigers in the NFL Playoffs
1. Derrick Brown (DT – Carolina Panthers)
While the Carolina Panthers did not make the 2024 playoffs, Derrick Brown’s overall impact on the NFL cannot go unnoticed. Drafted 7th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, Brown has developed into a top-tier defensive tackle for the Panthers. A force on the interior of the defensive line, Brown’s size, strength, and ability to disrupt the quarterback and the running game make him a key player to watch for the future. He has had a consistently strong presence on the Panthers’ defense, often drawing double teams and freeing up opportunities for his teammates. While he may not be part of this year’s playoffs, Brown remains one of the NFL’s rising stars and could play an important role for future playoff contenders.
2. Jamel Dean (CB – Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Jamel Dean, a cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is a notable Auburn alum still contributing at a high level in the NFL playoffs. Dean has been a consistent starter for the Buccaneers since being drafted in 2019. Known for his speed, physicality, and ball skills, Dean has become one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL. His ability to cover top wide receivers and shut down passing attacks has helped Tampa Bay remain competitive in recent seasons.
In the 2024 season, Dean was an integral part of the Buccaneers’ defensive efforts and played a key role in their return to the playoffs. With a strong postseason performance, Dean has the potential to further solidify his legacy as one of Auburn’s premier NFL alumni. His physical style of play has made him a valuable asset for Tampa Bay, and his matchup in the playoffs against elite quarterbacks will be one to watch.
3. Rudy Ford (S – Green Bay Packers)
Rudy Ford, a safety for the Green Bay Packers, has carved out a niche for himself as a special teams ace and reliable defensive back. A key contributor on both defense and special teams, Ford has been a versatile piece of the Packers’ roster. While his role on defense may not always be as high-profile as some of the other players, Ford’s ability to make key tackles, create turnovers, and provide leadership in the secondary has helped Green Bay stay competitive in the NFC.
The Packers made the playoffs in 2024, and Ford’s experience and tenacity in the secondary could be crucial in helping them make a deep postseason run. Whether it’s securing turnovers or making key tackles in the open field, Ford’s contributions are invaluable to the Packers’ hopes for a successful playoff campaign.
4. Nick Fairley (DT – Retired)
Nick Fairley, a former defensive tackle who played in the NFL for the Detroit Lions and the St. Louis Rams, retired from football due to health issues. However, he deserves mention as one of Auburn’s most notable alumni in recent NFL playoff history. Fairley was a dominant force on the defensive line during his time in the league, and his contributions to the NFL’s competitive landscape helped elevate Auburn’s reputation as a producer of elite defensive talent.
Though no longer active, Fairley’s legacy continues to be a point of pride for Auburn fans. During his career, he was a key figure in defensive schemes and had an impact on numerous playoff teams. His partnership with fellow defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh in Detroit was particularly formidable, and the duo helped transform the Lions’ defense into one of the league’s most feared.
5. Greg Robinson (OT – Retired)
Another retired player who deserves mention is Greg Robinson, a former offensive tackle for the St. Louis Rams, Detroit Lions, and Cleveland Browns. Robinson, drafted 2nd overall in the 2014 NFL Draft, had a somewhat tumultuous career in the NFL. Despite struggles with consistency, Robinson’s physical attributes and talent allowed him to start in key roles on playoff-contending teams during his career.
Though Robinson is no longer active in the league, his impact on Auburn football and his time in the NFL still hold significance for the Auburn Tigers. Robinson’s tenure in the NFL showed how important offensive line play is for successful teams, and his contributions helped open doors for future Auburn offensive linemen in the professional ranks.
6. Cameron Artis-Payne (RB – Free Agent)
Although Cameron Artis-Payne, a former running back for the Carolina Panthers, is no longer in the NFL, his time with the Panthers left an indelible mark on the franchise during its playoff runs. Known for his hard-charging, north-south running style, Artis-Payne had a few key moments during the Panthers’ 2015 NFC Championship season. Though he did not appear in the Super Bowl, his presence in the locker room and contributions during the regular season helped solidify the Panthers’ successful run.
While Artis-Payne is no longer playing in the NFL, his journey is a testament to the lasting impact Auburn alumni can have in the league. His career is a reminder that not every player makes it to the Pro Bowl, but all of Auburn’s NFL alums contribute in ways both large and small to their teams’ success.
The Auburn Tigers’ Legacy in the NFL Playoffs
Auburn University has consistently produced players who contribute to teams in the NFL playoffs. From dynamic running backs to lockdown cornerbacks and disruptive defensive linemen, Auburn players bring the same intensity, drive, and athleticism to the professional ranks that they honed on the college football field.
In 2024, former Auburn Tigers such as Jamel Dean, Rudy Ford, and others are continuing that tradition of excellence, showcasing the university’s longstanding influence in the NFL. Whether as starters or role players, these players contribute to the success of their respective teams, helping ensure that Auburn’s legacy lives on in the league’s most high-pressure moments.
