NFL Playoffs 2011: 10 Rookies That Will Play Vital Roles in Postseason

The following rookies will play vital roles in the 2011 NFL playoffs:

Randall Cobb, Packers

The Packers haven't had a returner with the game-breaking ability of Cobb since Desmond Howard. In 1996, Howard was a huge part of the Packers' Super Bowl run. Could Cobb do the same?

Mark Ingram, Saints

Ingram hasn't been able to stay healthy in 2011, and the Saints have a stable of backs that can play if Ingram isn't available. But don't you think the Saints would love to have the option of giving it to Ingram 15-18 times on the road in the playoffs?

Aldon Smith, 49ers

If the 49ers are going to get to the Super Bowl, they'll likely have to beat either the Saints or 49ers. That means the defense is going to need at least one dominant game. Aldon is the kind of pass-rushing specialist that could really disrupt the Packers and Saints on third downs.

Julio Jones, Falcons

Jones has battled injuries this season, but he's healthy now. With playoff defenses certain to focus their double teams on Roddy White, Jones should have the chance to make a fair share of big plays. 

Titus Young, Lions

The Lions are going to sling it no matter who they play, and Young has shown flashes of playmaking ability in his rookie season, especially down the stretch. Detroit might need a big play or two from Young to pull off a playoff upset. 

J.J. Watt, Texans

He's far from the sole reason for the Texans' defensive revival, but don't discount the kind of impact Watt has had for defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. The Texans will need strong defensive efforts to beat a team without Matt Schaub. 

Von Miller, Broncos

Miller has cooled off considerably in recent weeks after a blistering pace to start his NFL career. But you have to think that, if the Broncos are going to win a playoff game (or even get there), the defense will need to look more like it did during their mid-season winning streak.  

Torrey Smith, Ravens

Smith has helped transform the Ravens offense by adding a vertical threat that hasn't been present in recent seasons. Stretching defenses and getting that one big play is what Smith was drafted to do. 

Andy Dalton/A.J. Green, Bengals

If the Bengals get into the playoffs, no rookie pair will be as important as Dalton and Green. The two have set a new precedent for first-year passing tandems this season.