Injuries
Justin Fields has been placed on season-ending injured reserve, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The New York Jets quarterback will miss the remainder of the 2025 season after struggling with health and performance issues throughout the year.
The Cleveland Browns have officially ruled out Deshaun Watson for the remainder of the season. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the quarterback will not be activated, ending any speculation around a potential late return from shoulder surgery.
JJ McCarthy will also miss this week’s game due to a hairline fracture in his hand. Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell announced that rookie Max Brosmer is expected to start in Week 17.
Discipline and Suspension News
The NFL has upheld DK Metcalf’s two-game suspension following his appeal, which was heard by former NFL coach Chris Palmer acting as Roger Goodell’s designee. Metcalf will miss the Steelers’ final two regular-season games against Cleveland and Baltimore, and will forfeit $555,556 in salary as a result.
Additionally, the suspension triggers a void in $45 million in guaranteed money in Metcalf’s existing contract. Despite this, sources tell NFL reporters that the Steelers have reaffirmed their commitment to Metcalf beyond 2025, with both parties reportedly aligned on moving forward together.
Meanwhile, the NFL has concluded its review into the incident between Metcalf and a fan, determining there was “no violation.” As such, the fan involved will not face any punishment, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Quarterback News
Justin Herbert continues to lead the Los Angeles Chargers to a playoff berth despite playing behind what is statistically the league’s worst pass protection unit. The Chargers’ offensive line ranks 32nd in pass protection, yet Herbert has navigated the adversity to help clinch a postseason spot. Two more wins would secure an AFC West title.
Reflecting on last year’s early playoff exit, Herbert admitted the disappointment from the 2024 wild-card loss has been a lingering motivator. The Chargers’ turnaround is notable, given the circumstances and offensive line struggles.
In Dallas, Dak Prescott voiced his frustration following the Cowboys’ elimination from postseason contention. Speaking after Sunday’s loss, Prescott insisted the team “won’t be in this spot” in 2026, signaling a determination for improvement in the upcoming offseason.
Philip Rivers turned in a vintage performance in the Colts’ latest loss, but it wasn’t enough to deliver a win. The game raised questions about the effectiveness of Indianapolis’ defense and support around their veteran quarterback, with teammates expressing regret over letting Rivers down.
League Records
Aaron Rodgers has quietly reclaimed a prominent NFL benchmark. With his latest performance, Rodgers now holds the lowest career interception rate in league history, surpassing the previous mark he had briefly lost. The milestone emphasizes his long-standing reputation for precision and decision-making.
Coaching and Front Office News
Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh’s job security is drawing attention as the regular season nears its end. According to The Athletic, while Harbaugh remains focused on the team’s performance, questions persist regarding potential organizational decisions that could follow if the team underperforms in the playoffs.
Business and Stadium News
The Kansas City Chiefs’ new stadium funding deal with the state of Kansas is drawing scrutiny. According to Huddle Up, the state will provide $3 billion in public funding, while the team retains 100% of the revenue generated from the venue. Furthermore, the Chiefs’ $7 million annual rent will be funneled into an operations fund they control. The deal is one of the most lopsided team-friendly arrangements in sports history, with taxpayers covering costs while the franchise enjoys all financial upside.
Looking Ahead to Week 17
Week 17 features significant playoff implications and matchups with a spotlight on several quarterback changes. The Vikings turn to Max Brosmer to keep their hopes alive, while the Bears and 49ers square off in a primetime clash highlighting defensive matchups and coaching strategies.
As December winds down, the playoff race tightens across both conferences, with the Chargers and Bengals trending upward, and teams like Dallas left planning for 2026. Key contests this weekend will shape the final postseason picture ahead of Week 18.