Denzel Perryman – Linebacker
Before the 2021 season started, Denzel Perryman was at the world’s end with the Carolina Panthers organization after a short 162 day stretch with the team in which he didn’t play a single snap. Regardless of why he was traded from Carolina, he has made the most of his tenure in Las Vegas.
He has had a complete career reversal compared to his time with the Panthers. A player that has been on a mission all season won’t slow down against the Bengals in the wildcard matchup.
Maxx Crosby – Edge Defender
Similar to Hunter Renfrow, Maxx Crosby was another mid-round NFL Draft selection that has been on a mission since day one. This season, he led the NFL with 101 total quarterback pressures in 17 games played. In addition, he had 10 sacks on the season. His on-field performance has skyrocketed in his third NFL season, and so has his outspokenness about overcoming sobriety.
Crosby’s efforts both on and off the field are heartfelt for many. But, as he has all year, his will from within will carry him in the playoffs.
Daniel Carlson – Kicker
The Silver and Black’s kicker story has been an eventful one. From the moment that former Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer abrasively dismissed Daniel Carlson from the organization to now has been a complete roller-coaster. When Carlson first arrived with the team in 2018, some were hesitant about the acquisition, considering what transpired in Minnesota. Yet, according to the Associated Press, he is a second-team All-Pro this year.
At this moment, everything negative that was said about him was erased. There aren’t many scenarios larger than that, and the playoff atmosphere should not overwhelm him.
Rich Bisaccia – Interim Head Coach
Last but not least is the Raiders interim head coach, Rich Bisaccia. All the players mentioned above overcame many feats, but he has had to navigate through unchartered waters himself. With many off-field incidents and taking over coaching from a former colleague, what he has done this season is remarkable. However, the season is not finished, and the former special teams coach can cement a full-time head coaching role with a win against the Cincinnati Bengals in the wildcard round today.