The highly anticipated Super Bowl LX is set to unfold at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 11, 2025, at 18:30 ET. The New England Patriots will face off against the Seattle Seahawks in a matchup that promises to deliver thrilling moments and unforgettable plays. While quarterbacks Drake Maye of the Patriots and Sam Darnold of the Seahawks will take center stage, the significance of their supporting cast cannot be overlooked. Here, we highlight the ten most impactful non-quarterbacks in this year’s championship game.
10. Mike Onwenu – Patriots Right Guard
Mike Onwenu is gearing up for a critical challenge as he faces the Seahawks’ formidable pass rush, which tied for seventh in the league with 47 sacks during the regular season. Onwenu, who allowed just two sacks over 648 pass-block snaps, proved his prowess by not allowing any pressures in the AFC Championship Game against the Denver Broncos. His performance will be pivotal in protecting Maye and facilitating a dynamic Patriots offense.
9. Kenneth Walker III – Seahawks Running Back
The Seahawks’ ground game is in good hands with Kenneth Walker III. Former Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander compared Walker to a younger version of himself, highlighting his explosive potential. Walker has already made a significant impact in the postseason, ranking third in rushing yards with 178 and leading with four rushing touchdowns. His regular season total of 1,027 yards underscores his value to the Seahawks’ offensive strategy.
8. Milton Williams – Patriots Defensive End
Despite being an underdog in the eyes of sportsbooks, Milton Williams is poised to make a significant impact. The fifth-year defensive end, who contributed to the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl victory last season, recorded an average tackle depth of 0.9 yards, his best to date. Williams has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to defy expectations.
7. Nick Emmanwori – Seahawks Safety
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 220 pounds, Nick Emmanwori is a physical presence in the Seahawks’ secondary. His unique combination of size and athleticism has drawn comparisons to characters from science fiction. Emmanwori, a finalist for the 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year, ranked third on the team in tackles with 81 and passes defended with 11. Despite an ankle injury, he intends to play in the Super Bowl.
6. Ernest Jones IV – Seahawks Linebacker
For Ernest Jones IV, this Super Bowl carries deep personal significance. He dedicates his appearance to his late father, who passed away from cancer in July 2024. Jones, who won a Super Bowl with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021, has had a standout year, tying for second in the NFL with five interceptions and ranking 18th in tackles with 126. His emotional drive adds an inspiring layer to his performance.
5. Leonard Williams – Seahawks Defensive End
Known for his skills on the field and his interest in Magic: The Gathering, Leonard Williams has played a crucial role in the Seahawks’ defense this season. With seven sacks during the regular season and a second-team All-Pro nod, his ability to generate pressure will be crucial against the Patriots’ offensive line.
4. Christian Gonzalez – Patriots Cornerback
Despite having only one interception this season, Christian Gonzalez is a key player in the Patriots’ secondary. He allowed just 26 completions and two touchdown catches on 61 targets in 14 regular-season games. Head coach Mike Vrabel noted that Gonzalez has been instrumental in the postseason, making him a player to watch on Sunday.
3. Devon Witherspoon – Seahawks Cornerback
Head coach Mike Macdonald has called Devon Witherspoon the most critical player on the Seahawks’ defense, which leads the league in points allowed with an average of 17.1. Witherspoon allowed only one touchdown catch on 33 targets during the regular season and has earned a spot on the second-team All-Pro list. His performance will be pivotal in limiting the Patriots’ scoring opportunities.
2. Stefon Diggs – Patriots Wide Receiver
After considering a move to the Denver Broncos, Stefon Diggs ultimately signed a three-year, $63.5 million contract with the Patriots. A finalist for the 2025 Comeback Player of the Year, Diggs recorded 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns in the regular season. His ability to make crucial catches will be essential for New England’s success in the Super Bowl.
1. Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Seahawks Wide Receiver
The 2025 Offensive Player of the Year, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, enters the Super Bowl with impressive statistics, leading the NFL with 1,793 receiving yards and tying for sixth with ten touchdown catches. Coach Macdonald humorously suggested the challenge of stopping him might require three defenders. Smith-Njigba’s explosive playmaking ability has made him a candidate for Super Bowl MVP, with odds currently at +550.
As the countdown to Super Bowl LX continues, these non-quarterback stars will play vital roles in determining the outcome of this high-stakes matchup. Fans around the world will be watching closely as these athletes strive to leave their mark on the NFL’s biggest stage.
