Top 5 NFL rookies left in the playoffs feat. Sam LaPorta, Brian Branch and more

Best NFL rookies left in the playoffs 2023

#3 - Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions

NFC Divisional Playoffs - Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Detroit Lions

Brian Branch isn't the only Detroit Lions rookie balling out in 2023. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs has made his presence felt as his rookie season continues, complimenting power back David Montgomery.

Gibbs and Montgomery have formed a dynamic running back duo, with Gibbs amassing 1,261 all-purpose yards in the regular season and a further 183 in his two playoff games to date. Whilst Montgomery has led the backfield in touchdowns, Gibbs is still a threat, reaching the end zone 11 times.

Coming up against the pass rush of the San Francisco 49ers, with the likes of Nick Bosa, expect the Lions to lean heavily on Jahmyr Gibbs and their run game during this week's NFC Championship game.

#2 - Zay Flowers, Baltimore Ravens

AFC Divisional Playoffs - Houston Texans v Baltimore Ravens

Another rookie wide receiver taking the league by storm is Zay Flowers of the Baltimore Ravens. Flowers has immediately become a top target of QB Lamar Jackson, especially after losing superstar TE Mark Andrews for the season due to injury.

The former Boston College man has gained 858 yards on 77 receptions this year, adding five touchdowns. He totalled just 41 yards on his playoff debut against the Houston Texans, but will be looking to bounce back in a big way in the AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

#1 - Sam LaPorta, Detroit Lions

NFC Divisional Playoffs - Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Detroit Lions

Sam LaPorta was easily the most impressive rookie tight end of recent times. While most rookies in that position take time to adjust to the NFL, LaPorta immediately became a vital piece of the Detroit Lions offense.

He amassed 889 yards on 86 receptions and had 10 receiving touchdowns, more than any tight end in the NFL. Fantasy Football owners loved LaPorta this year, as he finished first in PPR fantasy scoring, ahead of the likes of George Kittle and Travis Kelce.

Only star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown had more targets and receptions from QB Jared Goff, as the rookie TE has shown he was more than worth the 34th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year favorites

To top off his excellent debut campaign, LaPorta was named Second-team All-Pro as well as being voted to the Pro Bowl. If it wasn't for the historic seasons of C.J. Stroud and Puka Nacua, LaPorta would be a favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.