NFL Playoffs Begin: Local High School Stars Make Their Mark

As the NFL playoffs kick off this Saturday, 14 teams across the league are gearing up for their shot at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. Among the players aiming to make a significant impact are several athletes who began their journey in high school football right here in Washington. Their performances could play a crucial role in their teams’ success this postseason.

First up, we have a fourth-round draft pick from 2023 who has been a reliable backup cornerback and a key player on special teams for the Eagles. Over his career, he has played in 34 games, showing his capability with one interception this season and a fumble recovery against Jacksonville. This season alone, he has recorded 234 snaps on the field, demonstrating his growing importance to the team.

Next on the list is a seventh-round rookie who has made his presence felt recently. Active for the last five games, he achieved a personal best by catching three passes for 52 yards in a Week 17 victory over Carolina. His performance in the final game against New Orleans included two catches for 36 yards, with a particularly important 20-yard reception on third down that helped lead to a scoring drive.

Otton, who has had a standout year as a tight end, boasts impressive stats with 59 receptions for 600 yards and four touchdowns, even though he missed the last three games due to a knee injury. He has emerged as one of the NFL’s highest-usage tight ends, racking up 1,194 snaps this season. Notably, he had his first career 100-yard receiving game in October against Baltimore.

Then there is Rapp, a former second-round pick by the Rams in 2019, who now plays strong safety for the Bills. He has been pivotal this year, contributing with two interceptions, a forced fumble, and 82 tackles throughout 14 games. His consistent performance secured him a three-year extension in the offseason.

Lastly, the NFL’s 2021-22 offensive MVP continues to push through injuries as he transitioned from being the Rams’ top target to sharing the spotlight with second-year player Puka Nacua. He still managed to tally 67 catches for 710 yards and six touchdowns in just 12 games this season.

In addition to these key players, others like Andre Dillard from Woodinville (currently with Green Bay) and Foster Sarell from Graham-Kapowsin (now with the Los Angeles Chargers) are also gaining attention as potential game-changers as the playoffs unfold.

With the playoffs starting, all eyes will be on these athletes as they strive to secure their teams a coveted spot in Super Bowl LIX. Their journeys from high school football to this critical moment in the NFL is an inspiring reminder of how local talent can rise to new heights.