The NFL Wild Card Weekend showcases numerous former Oklahoma Sooners who have transitioned into pivotal roles for their respective teams. Here’s a look at some standout players to watch:
**Cleveland Browns vs. Houston Texans**
Defensive end Ogbonnia Okoronkwo has been instrumental for the Browns this season. Facing his former team, the Texans, Okoronkwo accumulated 31 tackles and 4.5 sacks during the regular season, underscoring his pass-rushing capabilities.
**Kansas City Chiefs vs. Miami Dolphins**
The Chiefs’ offensive line boasts significant Sooner talent:
– **Creed Humphrey**: As the starting center, Humphrey has been a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line since his 2020 draft selection, ensuring quarterback protection and facilitating the run game.
– **Wanya Morris**: Transitioning from a backup role, Morris started four games this season, demonstrating potential as a long-term solution at tackle.
– **James Winchester**: Serving as the Chiefs’ long snapper for nine seasons, Winchester’s reliability is crucial for special teams’ success.
– **Blake Bell**: Known as the “Belldozer,” Bell contributes primarily as a blocking tight end, with five receptions for 26 yards and a touchdown this season.
**Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers**
Defensive tackle Jordan Phillips has been a key rotational player for the Bills, recording 2.5 sacks and 15 tackles. His presence bolsters Buffalo’s defensive front.
**Dallas Cowboys vs. Green Bay Packers**
The Cowboys feature two prominent former Sooners:
– **CeeDee Lamb**: Emerging as one of the NFL’s elite receivers, Lamb achieved 135 catches for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns this season, ranking in the top three across these categories.
– **Neville Gallimore**: A consistent presence on the defensive line, Gallimore participated in all 17 games, contributing 15 tackles and one sack.
**Philadelphia Eagles vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers**
This matchup features several former Sooners:
– **Lane Johnson**: Since being drafted fourth overall in 2013, Johnson has established himself as one of the premier offensive tackles in the league, with a career trajectory pointing toward the Hall of Fame.
– **Jalen Hurts**: Claimed by Oklahoma fans, Hurts has played at an MVP level over the past two seasons, leading the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance last year. This season, he amassed 3,858 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and added 605 rushing yards with 15 touchdowns.
– **Baker Mayfield**: Leading the Buccaneers, Mayfield revitalized his career by guiding Tampa Bay to the playoffs. He achieved career highs with 4,044 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and a 64.3% completion rate, reaffirming his status as a starting NFL quarterback.
These former Oklahoma players have not only secured spots in the NFL but have become integral to their teams’ successes, particularly as the intensity of the playoffs unfolds.
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