The 2026 NFL playoffs delivered drama without Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, or Patrick Mahomes, featuring snow games, record close contests, and unforgettable moments. Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III earned Super Bowl MVP honors with 135 rushing yards and exceptional patience, including a 3.09-second run that showcased his elite vision. His performance came in Seattle's 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX.

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams created one of the postseason's most spectacular plays with a 51-yard fadeaway touchdown pass to Cole Kmet in the NFC divisional round, despite being forced 22 steps back in the pocket. Meanwhile, San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan's trick play call - the "Skyy Bang Reverse Pass" - resulted in a 29-yard touchdown connection between Jauan Jennings and Christian McCaffrey that proved pivotal in their wild-card win over the Philadelphia Eagles.

The playoffs also featured heartbreak, particularly for Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, who tied a career high with four turnovers in a 33-30 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos. Allen's emotional postgame reaction underscored the mounting pressure on a quarterback with 15 postseason starts but no Super Bowl appearance. The Houston Texans' C.J. Stroud struggled with uncharacteristic turnovers, throwing four interceptions in their divisional round loss to New England.