Twelve former Illinois football players entered the NFL playoffs. After the league’s conference championship games this weekend, these matchups have shown strong representation from Illinois.
Only a handful who entered the playoffs are still fighting for the Lombardi Trophy. Let’s look back and see the five players who performed best in these playoffs.
No. 5: Del’Shawn Phillips, linebacker, Texans
Houston Texans linebacker Del’Shawn Phillips was one of the few Illini players to see the field during the postseason. When Phillips played, he consistently made an impact on the field.
The most notable performance by Phillips was against the defending champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. Phillips recorded two tackles coming off of special teams and forced a safety at the end of the game.
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Phillips was also able to secure three tackles in these playoffs. It is the most any linebacker from Illinois has recorded this postseason.
No. 4: Chase McLaughlin, kicker, Buccaneers
Even though the Tampa Bay Buccaneers got eliminated in the Wildcard, Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin put up a fight. McLaughlin put forth his full effort that day, making every kick when his number was called.
McLaughlin started the game with a massive 50-yard field goal on the team’s first drive, setting a positive tone for the day. His most notable play was a 32-yard game-tying field goal that gave the Buccaneers hope to move on in the playoffs.
McLaughlin scored eight points in that game, helping keep the score close until the very end.
No. 3: Kerby Joseph, safety, Lions
The Detroit Lions had an unfortunate start to 2025. Both coordinators left, and they were bounced out of the playoffs in the divisional round. Despite the setbacks, Lions safety Kerby Joseph had himself a game.
Joseph recorded six tackles against the Washington Commanders, doing his best to keep rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels contained. However, the safety surrendered a 38-yard pass that led to a Commanders touchdown before the end of the first half. He also had one defensive pass interference call on him, which was brutal for the Lions.
Even though Joseph made some mistakes, he is a cornerstone for the Lions’ defense and should have another big season next year.
No 2: Quan Martin, safety, Commanders
The Washington Commanders’ defense has played their best football of the season. Despite this, the Commanders cut their postseason journey short with a 32-point loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Commanders’ safety Quan Martin was extremely active, making his impact known in the run-and-pass game.
Martin’s highlight of the playoffs happened in the Divisional Round. Lions quarterback Jared Goff tried to target Lions receiver Tim Patrick, but Martin had other plans. Martin intercepted the pass and took it to the house, giving the Commanders a 10-point lead. That play set the game’s upbeat tone, providing momentum to the Commanders.
Though Washington won’t head to the Super Bowl, Martin had another solid showing in the NFC Championship game. He finished with five tackles, three of which were solo. Regardless, Illini fans are proud of his efforts and will continue to cheer him on with his future professional endeavors.
No. 1: Nick Allegretti, guard, Commanders
Daniels has put forth some great performances. He is in the midst of one of the best rookie seasons in the NFL, but the unsung heroes are the big men protecting him. Commanders’ guard Nick Allegretti is one of those players, consistently holding his ground against opposing teams.
Allegretti is one of the top snaps played guys on the field these playoffs (226). While he allowed a sack in the NFC Championship game, his consistency and strength are the vital elements that got him to this point.
Not only has he protected Daniels well, but he has been doing it clean and without penalties. Since coming to Washington, Allegretti has proved that playoff experience is important, and his performance is vital to the team’s success and Daniels.
@Jon_Mathew23
