The NFL playoff game is taken over by former Georgia Bulldogs.

The NFL Playoff Game Taken Over by Former Georgia Bulldogs: A Rising Legacy in the NFL

The University of Georgia has long been recognized as one of the most successful football programs in the country, producing countless NFL players who have gone on to achieve greatness at the professional level. Over the years, the Bulldogs have cultivated a reputation for developing elite talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. As the NFL playoffs ramp up in intensity, one thing became abundantly clear: former Georgia Bulldogs are taking over the game in 2025. With key contributions from players who once graced the field in Athens, Georgia is well-represented in the NFL postseason, showcasing a new wave of talent that’s making a major impact on the league.

In this article, we will explore the remarkable performances of former Georgia Bulldogs in the 2025 NFL playoffs. From dominant defensive players to explosive offensive standouts, Georgia alumni have become a driving force for their respective teams, demonstrating the program’s continued ability to produce top-tier professionals. As we break down the performances, we’ll also examine how Georgia football has evolved to send more players to the NFL than ever before, and what this dominance means for the future of both college and professional football.

1. Georgia Bulldogs’ NFL Pipeline: A Legacy of Excellence

Before diving into the individual performances in the 2025 NFL playoffs, it’s important to first appreciate the context that has allowed Georgia to become such a dominant presence in the NFL. Over the past decade, under the leadership of head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia has solidified its reputation as a factory for NFL talent. The Bulldogs’ ability to recruit top players, develop them through their collegiate careers, and prepare them for professional success has placed the program at the pinnacle of college football.

While Georgia has always been known for producing standout players, the 2025 NFL playoff picture highlights a significant increase in the number of former Bulldogs contributing at the highest levels. The university’s emphasis on developing pro-ready players—particularly on defense—has paid off in a big way. Players who once dominated for the Bulldogs are now wreaking havoc on NFL offenses and defenses, proving that Georgia’s talent pipeline is stronger than ever.

Several factors contribute to Georgia’s success in sending players to the NFL, including elite coaching, exceptional facilities, and a culture of excellence. Kirby Smart, a former defensive coordinator for Alabama, has transformed Georgia into a consistent contender in the SEC, winning multiple national championships and regularly recruiting the nation’s best talent. The university’s commitment to player development and maximizing individual potential has translated into impressive NFL careers, and the 2025 playoffs have showcased this in full force.

2. Key Former Georgia Bulldogs in the 2025 NFL Playoffs

The 2025 NFL playoffs feature several former Georgia Bulldogs who have established themselves as stars in the league. These players have earned recognition for their exceptional performances during the regular season, and their ability to step up in the postseason has only solidified their legacies as elite NFL talents. Here are some of the standout former Bulldogs who have made their mark in the 2025 NFL playoffs:

2.1 Jalen Carter (Defensive Tackle, Philadelphia Eagles)

One of the most dominant defensive forces in college football during his time at Georgia, Jalen Carter has transitioned into an elite player for the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL. Carter’s physicality, agility, and disruptive force on the defensive line have made him one of the most feared players in the league.

During the 2025 playoffs, Carter continued to demonstrate why he was considered one of the best defensive players in the country during his time in Athens. His ability to clog up running lanes, pressure the quarterback, and create havoc on the interior of the defensive line was on full display as the Eagles made their playoff run. Carter’s performance in the postseason has been a key factor in the Eagles’ success, as his presence in the middle of the defense has allowed his teammates to thrive.

Carter’s development at Georgia under Kirby Smart prepared him well for the NFL. His understanding of defensive schemes, his technique, and his relentless motor have made him an invaluable asset to the Eagles. As Philadelphia continues to compete for a championship, Carter’s performance will be critical to their chances of success.

2.2 Roquan Smith (Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens)

Roquan Smith, a former Georgia standout linebacker, has quickly become one of the most respected players in the NFL. Smith was the heart of Georgia’s defense during his time in Athens, and since joining the Baltimore Ravens, he has continued to dominate at the linebacker position.

Smith’s exceptional instincts, speed, and tackling ability have made him a leader on the Ravens’ defense. His ability to read offenses, cover ground quickly, and make key tackles in critical moments was evident during Baltimore’s playoff run in 2025. Smith was often the player called upon to make crucial stops, and his leadership in the huddle has been invaluable to the Ravens as they pushed toward a deep playoff run.

In addition to his on-field performance, Smith’s leadership and work ethic have set him apart in the NFL. His time at Georgia, where he played under Smart’s defensive system, helped him develop the skills necessary to excel at the next level. Smith’s impact on the Ravens’ defense is undeniable, and his ability to step up in the postseason has proven that he is among the league’s elite linebackers.

2.3 George Pickens (Wide Receiver, Pittsburgh Steelers)

George Pickens, one of the most dynamic playmakers to come out of Georgia in recent years, has proven that he can thrive at the highest level in the NFL. Known for his incredible athleticism, contested catches, and ability to make explosive plays, Pickens quickly became a go-to receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

During the 2025 NFL playoffs, Pickens was a key contributor to Pittsburgh’s offensive success. His ability to make clutch catches in critical moments, particularly on third down and in the red zone, was a major factor in the Steelers’ deep playoff run. Pickens’ combination of size, speed, and ball skills made him a mismatch for opposing defenses, and he continued to deliver big plays when Pittsburgh needed them most.

Pickens’ time at Georgia under Smart helped shape his game, particularly his understanding of route running, physicality, and contested catches. While he was already an elite talent in college, his development at Georgia prepared him for the transition to the NFL, where he has continued to shine. Pickens’ performances in the postseason have only solidified his place as one of the rising stars at the wide receiver position in the NFL.

2.4 Trayvon Walker (Defensive End, Jacksonville Jaguars)

Trayvon Walker’s rise to stardom in the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. After being selected first overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, Walker has quickly become a standout defensive player for the Jacksonville Jaguars. His athleticism, versatility, and pass-rushing ability were on full display during the 2025 NFL playoffs.

Walker’s performance in the postseason has been a key factor in the Jaguars’ success, as he was consistently able to apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks and disrupt offensive game plans. His ability to play both defensive end and outside linebacker has given Jacksonville the flexibility to move him around the defensive line, creating mismatches against opposing offensive lines.

Walker’s time at Georgia prepared him well for the NFL, as he was able to refine his skills under Smart’s tutelage. His size and athleticism, coupled with his work ethic, have made him an impact player in the NFL. Walker’s dominant performances in the 2025 playoffs have shown that he is one of the best young defenders in the league.

2.5 Lewis Cine (Safety, Minnesota Vikings)

Lewis Cine, a standout safety during his time at Georgia, has made an immediate impact in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his ability to play in both the box and in coverage, Cine has been a key contributor to the Vikings’ defense throughout the 2025 season and into the playoffs.

In the postseason, Cine’s ability to read quarterbacks, create turnovers, and provide leadership on the back end of the defense has been crucial to Minnesota’s success. His knack for making game-changing plays and his physical style of play have made him a difference-maker for the Vikings. Cine’s versatility, which was developed during his time at Georgia, has allowed him to excel in multiple roles for Minnesota, giving the team a dynamic defensive weapon.

Cine’s development at Georgia, particularly under Smart’s defensive system, helped shape him into the pro-ready player he is today. His time in Athens gave him the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive at the highest level of competition, and he continues to showcase those skills in the NFL playoffs.

3. The Future of Georgia Football in the NFL

The 2025 NFL playoffs have been a showcase of former Georgia Bulldogs, but this is just the tip of the iceberg. As the Bulldogs continue to recruit and develop elite talent, more players are bound to make their mark in the NFL in the years to come. With Georgia’s focus on developing both sides of the ball, particularly defense, the program will continue to produce NFL-ready players who are prepared to make an immediate impact at the next level.

The success of former Georgia players in the NFL highlights the program’s commitment to excellence, player development, and preparation for the professional ranks. Georgia football is clearly a program that not only excels in college but also sets its players up for long, successful careers in the NFL.