Throughout NFL history, the odds have rarely favored rookie quarterbacks when it comes to winning their postseason debut games. In fact, now only 11 rookie QBs have achieve this. This only show just how challenging it is for first-year players to navigate the pressures of the playoffs.
Jayden Daniels has joined the exclusive group of rookie quarterbacks to win their postseason debut, leading the charge in a thrilling 23-20 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Wild Card round. His performance showed his potential as a rising star, and future OROY but also cemented his place in NFL history as one of the few rookies to achieve such a remarkable feat.
He will face the best team in the league, the Detroit Lions on the Divisional Round.
Daniels and the 10 before him
C.J. Stroud (2023)
In his rookie season with the Houston Texans, C.J. Stroud stunned the NFL world by leading his team to a dominant 45-14 Wild Card victory over the Cleveland Browns. Stroud threw for 274 yards, three touchdowns (tying the rookie playoff record), and no interceptions with a 76.2% completion rate. His incredible performance made him the youngest quarterback in NFL history to win a postseason game and earned him the third-highest passer rating ever in the playoffs (157.2).
Brock Purdy (2022)
“Mr. Irrelevant” of the 2022 NFL Draft, Brock Purdy defied expectations by leading the San Francisco 49ers to a 41-23 Wild Card victory against the Seattle Seahawks. Purdy set rookie records for passing yards in a playoff debut (332) and joined 49ers legends Joe Montana and Steve Young with one of the highest playoff passing performances in team history.
John Wolford (2020)
John Wolford helped the Los Angeles Rams secure a playoff victory in 2020. Although he was replaced by Jared Goff during the game due to a neck injury, his contribution as a starter in the Wild Card round still places him in this exclusive group of rookie QBs.
Russell Wilson (2012)
Russell Wilson’s postseason journey began with a victory during his rookie year as the Seattle Seahawks’ quarterback. He led the team to a win in the Wild Card round against the extinct Redskins.He would be eliminated by the Falcons.
T.J. Yates (2011)
Houston Texans rookie T.J. Yates guided his team to their first-ever playoff win, beating the Cincinnati Bengals in the Wild Card round. Despite being a late-season replacement, Yates showed poise and resilience in the postseason spotlight.
Mark Sanchez (2009)
Mark Sanchez, known as “The Sanchize,” delivered two playoff victories for the New York Jets in his rookie season, reaching the AFC Championship game. His ability to perform under pressure earned him a place in NFL playoff lore.
Joe Flacco (2008)
Joe Flacco’s rookie playoff run with the Baltimore Ravens featured two wins, helping his team advance to the AFC Championship game. Flacco’s calm demeanor and strong play were instrumental in his early postseason success.
Ben Roethlisberger (2004)
As a rookie, Ben Roethlisberger led the Pittsburgh Steelers to a playoff victory and into the AFC Championship game. His physicality and confidence were evident from the start of his storied career. He ended havin two Super Bowl rings in his career.
Aaron Brooks (2000)
Aaron Brooks made history with the New Orleans Saints by leading the franchise to its first-ever playoff win. His performance in the 2000 postseason remains a significant moment in Saints history.
Shaun King (1999)
Shaun King took the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the NFC Championship game during his rookie season. His leadership and skill were crucial to the team’s deep postseason run.
Dieter Brock (1985)
Although technically a rookie in the NFL, Dieter Brock was 34 years old when he made his playoff debut for the Los Angeles Rams. With two playoff wins, Brock’s unique journey from the CFL to NFL success adds an intriguing twist to this list.
Pat Haden (1976)
Pat Haden, another Los Angeles Rams quarterback, led his team to a playoff win during his rookie campaign. His performance was part of a strong postseason showing for the Rams.
