2025 NFL Week 18 Winners and Losers and Top Takeaways

NFL Week 18 kicked off Saturday with two marquee matchups that impacted NFC playoff seeding. The Seattle Seahawks claimed the No. 1 seed, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers kept their division title and postseason hopes alive—only to see them dashed by the Atlanta Falcons' victory on Sunday.

Elsewhere, the Pittsburgh Steelers survived a battle with the Baltimore Ravens to win the AFC North title and final playoff spot on the prime-time stage.

Bleacher Report's NFL analysts, Brent Sobleski, Gary Davenport, Kris Knox and Moe Moton, will provide thoughts on the biggest winners and losers for this weekend's games. They'll also look at what's ahead for teams headed to the playoffs and into the offseason.

Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

AP Photo/Justin Berl

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers

Score: Steelers 26, Ravens 24

Steelers Takeaway: Aaron Rodgers Still Has Some Magic Left in Him

As part of the Steelers-Ravens rivalry for one season, Rodgers already has a memorable drive in a chapter between these bitter foes. 

In a late back-and-forth scoring battle, Rodgers led the Steelers on a six-play 65-yard touchdown drive. The 42-year-old can still sling it and elevate pass-catchers around him.

Don't write off Rodgers' career yet. He throws a more accurate ball than some quarterbacks in their prime. The 21st-year veteran will get at least one more game, in Pittsburgh against the Houston Texans. 

The Texans' defense better respect Rodgers' arm and his ability to extend plays with his legs while finding the open man downfield.

Winner: QB Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers

Without two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver D.K. Metcalf, who leads the Steelers in receiving yards (850) and touchdown receptions (six), Rodgers threw for 294 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 20 yards, showing off his wheels.

If the Steelers had lost Sunday night, it might've been Rodgers' last game. Instead, he put together one of his best performances on the prime-time stage in one of the league's biggest rivalries. The Steelers clinched a playoff berth because of him.

Ravens Takeaway: Devastating Loss Raises Questions About Leadership

Whether it's squandering fourth-quarter leads, not giving the ball to one of their best players, giving up big plays in critical moments or missing a game-winning field goal, the Ravens aren't built for the spotlight. 

Baltimore continues to shrink in high-pressure situations, which goes beyond the players. This team needs a mental makeover from the coaching staff down to the roster.

For a perennial playoff contender, the Ravens have finished the last few seasons in disappointing fashion, and it will soon cost head coach John Harbaugh his job if nothing changes in Baltimore.

Loser: HC John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens

Harbaugh didn't miss the potential game-winning field goal or allow wide receiver Calvin Austin III to score the go-ahead touchdown, but he's been a fixture through the Ravens' struggles in marquee matchups in the regular season and playoffs.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter via Ari Meirov of the 33rd Team, Harbaugh's future with the Ravens is "up in the air." 

Yes, Harbaugh signed a three-year extension in March of 2025, but the Ravens haven't advanced to the AFC Championship Game since they won the Super Bowl nearly 13 years ago, which is inexcusable for a highly talented perennial playoff contender.

If the Ravens don't fire Harbaugh this offseason, he'll enter the 2026 campaign firmly on the hot seat.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos

AP Photo/David Zalubowski

Broncos edge Nik Bonitto

Score: Broncos 19, Chargers 3

Broncos Takeaway: Denver is Set Up Well for Long-Term Success

By virtue of Sunday's win over a shorthanded Chargers team, the Broncos are the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs and had their best regular‑season showing in years. Denver is most assuredly living in the now.

But even if the Broncos come up short of the ultimate goal, head coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton have built a team that should be right back in the mix for a Super Bowl trip in 2026.

The Broncos roster is littered with impact players who are either squarely in their prime or not even there yet. There are no pending free agents Denver can't afford to lose. And with about $37 million in cap space, the team can afford some additions in free agency.

The fun won't last forever, though. After the 2026 campaign, quarterback Bo Nix will be eligible for an extension.

And those second contracts for quarterbacks tend to be pricey.

Winner: Edge Nik Bonitto, Denver Broncos

Bonitto doesn't get the run that Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders or Aidan Hutchinson of the Detroit Lions do, but he should—the fourth-year veteran is as impactful as either of those stars.

After racking up 13.5 sacks a year ago, Bonitto surpassed that mark in Sunday's win over the Bolts. Denver's pass rush is the strength of its formidable defense, and he is the heart of that unit.

Chargers Takeaway: Bolts Will Go as Far as Justin Herbert Carries Them

Let's be clear: the Chargers are in trouble. Say what you want about the New England Patriots and their last-place schedule. But the Pats have one loss since September, and that was a narrow defeat to the Buffalo Bills.

At their best, the Chargers can pull off this upset. They sport a top-10 defense that is especially stout against the pass. You know Jim Harbaugh will try to run the ball.

But it's a banged-up Herbert (and the ability of an equally banged-up line to protect him) that will determine how far the Chargers get in the postseason.

For them to make a run, Herbert will need to play at an elite level.

Loser: QB Trey Lance, Los Angeles Chargers

The 49ers once mortgaged their future to move up and draft Lance, but the move clearly hasn't paid off.

Now, Lance is on his third team in four years and has yet to establish consistent, high-level play.

Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears

AP Photo/Erin Hooley

Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown

Score: Lions 19, Bears 16

Lions Takeaway: Week 18 Win Doesn't Erase 2025 Failures

The Lions played hard in Week 18, earning a win over the first-place Bears on the road that gave Detroit a winning record.

The problem is that after Sunday, Detroit's season is over.

Last year, the Lions were able mask their defensive deficiencies with a buzzsaw of an offense—at least until the playoffs. But when that offense struggled at times this year, the same defensive issues were amplified—and the Lions missed the postseason.

Detroit has to get better on defense. Figure out why the run game vanished at times. And get a new offensive coordinator.

Dan Campbell is a fine head coach, but assuming play-calling duties was a mistake.

Winner: WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions

St. Brown can recite the name of every wide receiver drafted before him in 2021. The list of wideouts in the NFL who are better than him now is far shorter.

He has eclipsed 100 catches and 1,000 yards in four straight years and scored double-digit touchdowns in the past three. He didn't find the end zone against Chicago, but he was a force in the win, catching 11 passes for 139 yards.

Bears Takeaway: Slow Starts Will Doom Chicago in Playoffs

The Bears have made a habit of staging late comebacks this year. They did so again against the Lions Sunday, spotting Detroit a 16-0 fourth-quarter lead before storming back to tie the game.

However, Chicago wound up losing the game—and that's exactly what will happen if the team continues to start slowly in the postseason.

The Bears get a Green Bay Packers team in the Wild Card Round that is limping into the playoffs. But those same Packers beat the Bears in Week 14, and things only get harder from there.

Chicago has shown they can beat a quality opponent, winning in Philly the week before that loss in Titletown and winning the rematch with the Pack. The Bears are good.

They are also inconsistent, though, and that will get you bounced in January.

Loser: 4,000-Yard Passers in Chicago

To Caleb Williams' credit, he became the single-season passing yards king in Chicago in Sunday's loss.

But the Bears remain the only team in the NFL to never have a 4,000-yard passer—and Chicago has been in the league for a minute.

For all Chicago's weapons and Ben Johnson running the offense, it was believed by many that this would be the year. But Williams came up about 60 yards short.

Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots

AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty

New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson

Score: Patriots 38, Dolphins 10

Patriots Takeaway: Backfield Tandem Can Be a Postseason Difference-Maker

Sunday's game against the rival Miami Dolphins marked Drake Maye's final chance to state his MVP case. However, the New England Patriots quarterback was largely overshadowed by running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson.

Both backs had rushing touchdowns on Sunday, while Stevenson added a receiving touchdown. As a duo, they'll be extremely difficult to game-plan for moving forward.

The Patriots know they can rely on Maye to do special things when needed. With Stevenson and Henderson both healthy, though, Josh McDaniels will have a myriad of ways to create mismatches in the playoffs.

Winner: Patriots Fans

The Patriots clinched the AFC East last week and had a chance to secure the conference's No. 1 seed in the final week of the season. New England will be playing on wild-card weekend as the No. 2 seed, which is a far cry from where this franchise has been in recent years.

Six years after Tom Brady played his final game as a Patriot, New England is again the class of its division and one of the top contenders in the conference. For fans who stayed on the bandwagon through a relatively brief dark period, ending the regular season like this has to feel pretty good.

Dolphins Takeaway: Miami's Issues Go Far Beyond the Quarterback

Head coach Mike McDaniel decided to bench quarterback Tua Tagovailoa a few weeks ago, after an uninspired performance ended Miami's four-game winning streak and eliminated the team from postseason contention. In three games since, quarterback Quinn Ewers has flashed potential while making rookie mistakes.

In other words, Ewers has played as one would expect from an inexperienced seventh-round pick.

As the Patriots pulled away in the second half, it became obvious just how far below elite teams Miami's overall roster is. Of course, that's probably why general manager Chris Grier was fired in-season and why head coach Mike McDaniels may get a fifth season in 2026.

Loser: Defensive Coordinator Anthony Weaver, Miami Dolphins

According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, "signs continue to point towards" McDaniel returning, but "staff changes are possible."

Sunday's loss was not a great final impression for defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, who oversaw a unit ranked 21st in both points and yards allowed coming into Week 18.

Arizona Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Rams

AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh

Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford

Score: Rams 37, Cardinals 20

Rams Takeaway: L.A. Finds a Rhythm Just In Time for the Postseason

After losing back-to-back games and ruining any shot at an NFC West title, the Los Angeles Rams spent much of Sunday afternoon playing things uncomfortably close with the Arizona Cardinals.

Then, the Rams finally started to pull away. In the end, they put together a fairly convincing win that included big days from Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua, plus multiple takeaways by the defense.

Los Angeles should have standout receiver Davante Adams (hamstring) back for the wild-card round, and it has managed to find some momentum just in time for a rematch with the Carolina Panthers.

Winner: QB Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams

This year's MVP race has become a two-player sprint between Stafford and New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye.

A week ago, Maye tossed five touchdown passes in a win, while Stafford tossed a trio of interceptions in a loss. While both quarterbacks played well in wins this Sunday, Stafford's four touchdown passes got him to 46 on the season.

No quarterback has thrown for more than 46 touchdown passes in a season since Aaron Rodgers had 48 in 2020. If Stafford ends up winning the MVP award, his final outing of the regular season will likely have played a big role.

Cardinals Takeaway: Michael Wilson Has Established Himself as Arizona's No. 2 Target

The Cardinals used the fourth overall pick on wideout Marvin Harrison Jr., hoping that he'd become the team's No. 1 receiver and No. 2 target next to tight end Trey McBride.

While it's worth noting Harrison has been slowed by injuries this year—he was placed on IR ahead of Week 18—it's also worth noting that 2023 third-round pick Michael Wilson has blossomed since Jacoby Brissett took over at quarterback.

Wilson repeatedly broke through the Rams' coverage on Sunday, recording 98 yards and a touchdown while going over 1,000 yards for the season.

Loser: Head Coach Jonathan Gannon, Arizona Cardinals

According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, "the general sense" is that Cardinals franchise owner Michael Bidwell will run things back in 2026 with head coach Jonathan Gannon and without quarterback Kyler Murray.

However, Sunday's loss should at least force Bidwell to question whether Gannon deserves to return.

Arizona has lost nine straight while consistently struggling on defense, which stands out given Gannon's defensive background. While the Cardinals fought hard for most of Sunday's game, they still surrendered 395 yards and 37 points for the second consecutive week.

Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles

AP Photo/Matt Rourke

Washington Commanders QB Josh Johnson

Score: Commanders 24, Eagles 17

Commanders Takeaway: Washington Ends Its Season on a High Note

Neither the Washington Commanders nor the Philadelphia Eagles played a full complement of starters on Sunday. With Jayden Daniels done for the year and Marcus Mariota ailing, Washington went with Josh Johnson for the second straight week.

There simply wasn't a lot to gain from winning this one, aside from spoiling things for a bitter division rival, which Washington did.

With the Chicago Bears falling flat against the Detroit Lions, the Eagles had a chance to secure the NFC's No. 2 seed. The Commanders fought hard, overcame several mistakes, and picked up only their second victory since Week 5.

Winner: Head Coach Dan Quinn, Washington Commanders

It's been a trying season for the Commanders and for head coach Dan Quinn. He's had to navigate numerous injuries—including several suffered by Daniels—and the expectations that came from reaching the NFC title game in his first season.

Washington ended its season with four straight divisional games, and going 2-2 in that stretch has to feel like a win for Quinn, given the adversity the team has faced. While Sunday's win came against mostly backups, it gives Quinn a little something positive on which to build entering a pivotal offseason.

Eagles Takeaway: Healthy Starters Were More Important Than Seeding

Eagles coach Nick Sirianni made it perfectly clear that he didn't want to risk any of his top stars ahead of the playoffs.

"At the end of the day, it's not a guarantee that we can get the 2-seed but I can guarantee that I can rest the starters," Sirianni told reporters on Friday.

It turns out that the Eagles very well could have earned the No. 2 seed—Chicago lost to Detroit 19-16—but you can bet that Sirianni won't regret his decision.

Philly will be mostly healthy against the San Francisco 49ers next weekend, and players like Tanner McKee, Tank Bigsby, and Kylen Granson should give Philly plenty of confidence in its depth ahead of the postseason.

Loser: The San Francisco 49ers

The Commanders got the win, while the Eagles got to stay healthy. It sure feels like the big loser coming out of this one is the San Francisco 49ers.

After losing a brutally physical grudge match to the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday, the 49ers probably would have preferred to face the Chicago Bears—a team they beat a week ago—instead of a well-rested Philadelphia team in the wild card round.

While the Eagles came close to winning without their starters, they didn't, and the 49ers will head to Philly next weekend as a result.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders

AP Photo/John Locher

Las Vegas Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson

Score: Raiders 14, Chiefs 12

Raiders Takeaway: The Silver and Black Reset Will Be Underway 

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, "the belief around the league" is that the Raiders will move on from head coach Pete Carroll, who signed a three-year deal. 

Initially, Las Vegas pursued Ben Johnson in the previous head coaching hiring cycle, but he chose the Chicago Bears. The Raiders' backup plan hasn't worked out. They finished the season with fewer wins this year under Carroll than they had under first-year lead skipper Antonio Pierce. Team brass should relieve Carroll of his duties within the next day or so.

The Raiders clinched the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft thanks to the New York Giants' win over the Dallas Cowboys, which opens the door for them to move on from quarterback Geno Smith, whom they acquired from the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a third-round pick. Smith has an existing relationship with Carroll from their time in Seattle. 

If Indiana prospect Fernando Mendoza declares for the upcoming draft, he could be Las Vegas-bound. With a little over $100 million in cap space, the Raiders should be able to build around him via free agency and trades.

Aside from general manager John Spytek, the Raiders are likely headed for an offseason reset that could set up the franchise for future success.

Winner: Las Vegas Raiders Fans

Raider fans needed something positive amid a woeful season. Las Vegas locked up the top pick in the 2026 draft with a Giants' win and then beat Kansas City on a game-winning field goal.

Before Sunday, the Raiders hadn't won a game since October 12. They snapped a 10-game losing streak, and their fans can look forward to an intriguing offseason with a premium draft capital and a ton of cap space.

Chiefs Takeaway: It's Time To Reload the Pass-Catching Group

Regardless of Travis Kelce's decision, Kansas City must revamp its receiver and tight end units. Though Kelce can still be productive in his age-37 term, he's no longer an elite playmaking tight end. He finished Sunday's game with two receptions for 10 yards. Wideouts Marquise Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster and Tyquan Thornton will be free agents in the offseason.

Xavier Worthy, a 2024 first-rounder, has been inconsistent. In three seasons, Rashee Rice has missed 23 games, mostly because of injuries and a suspension.

The Chiefs need a reliable go-to target in the passing game, especially with Patrick Mahomes recovering from a torn ACL. He may be limited or sidelined early next season. Kansas City should be targeting pass-catchers via free agency or the trade market.

Loser: QB Chris Oladokun, Kansas City Chiefs

Oladokun had a chance to showcase himself against the Raiders backups, but the Chiefs swapped him out for Shane Buechele in the second half. The former completed 11 out of 17 passes for just 58 yards and took three sacks.

Oladokun has one more year on his contract, but he probably won't be the fill-in starter if Mahomes isn't able to suit up for Week 1 of the 2026 season.

New York Jets vs. Buffalo Bills

AP Photo/Adrian Kraus

Bills QB Mitchell Trubisky

Score: Bills 35, Jets 8

Bills Takeaway: Farewell to Ralph Wilson Stadium

Yes, it's officially Highmark Stadium now, but many fans will always think of it as Ralph Wilson Stadium.

We didn't learn anything new about the Bills in a game where Josh Allen played just long enough to extend his consecutive starts streak. The Bills are capable of beating any team in the NFL, but a suspect run defense could be their undoing.

However, what we did see was the last game ever at a stadium that has been the Bills' home since 1973. It was known as Rich Stadium for most of its history, but it's only fair it be remembered with the name of the team's founder.

There were plenty of good times—and a lot of snow.

At least the Bills stayed true to their cold‑weather identity instead of building a dome.

Winner: QB Mitchell Trubisky, Buffalo Bills

Granted, lighting up a bad Jets defense than has been decimated by personnel losses isn't exactly a Herculean task. But Trubisky still looked awfully sharp in staking the Bills to a big early lead in relief of Allen Sunday.

Buffalo found the end zone on three of their first four drives in Week 18. Over that stretch, Trubisky was 15-for-19 for 169 yards and a pair of scores. He finished the game with 259 passing yards and four touchdowns.

Jets Takeaway: Boom Goes the Dynamite

The Jets began dismantling a struggling roster at the trade deadline, trading away cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams.

New York now needs to finish the job because it needs a ground-up rebuild.

With all due respect to Aaron Glenn's acumen as a defensive coordinator, he should be one-and-done as New York's head coach. The QB situation in New York is as unsettled as any in the league. There isn't a position group on either side of the ball (outside maybe off-ball linebacker) that doesn't need an influx of talent.

The Jets will have a pair of picks in the top 15 in April, but with the Raiders picking first, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is all but certainly off the table.

New York needs to make good use of those picks and the sixth-most cap space in the NFL, per Over the Cap.

Loser: RB Breece Hall, New York Jets

Hall wasn't on the field due to a knee injury, and he has likely played his last game for the Jets.

The 24-year-old set career highs in carries and rushing yards this year on the way to his first 1,000-yard season on the ground, and after averaging 4.5 yards per carry over four years with Gang Green, he should be a coveted free agent.

The Jets have too many problems on offense and defense to pay big money to a running back. So, the 2022 second-round pick is likely headed elsewhere.

Leaving MetLife Stadium and New York might ultimately be a positive for Hall, depending on how free agency unfolds.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans

AP Photo/David J. Phillip

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud

Score: Texans 38, Colts 30

Texans Takeaway: Don't Claim Division Crown But Enter Postseason on a Heater

By the second half, with Jacksonville routing Tennessee, it was clear Houston's path was as a wild‑card team rather than AFC South champions.

However, the Texans still took care of business and managed a victory to build momentum going into the postseason. 

Houston is now the team no one wants to play, even as a wild-card entrant, because the Texans defense will make life miserable on whichever unit it faces. 

Furthermore, Demeco Ryans' squad won nine straight to finish the regular season. The Texans have peaked at the right time to make a legitimate run during the playoffs. 

Winner: Texans Offensive Line

Houston's O-line received significant flak, particularly last season and into the first half of the 2025 campaign. However, the group came together in recent weeks. 

Quarterback C.J. Stroud wasn't sacked Sunday for the third straight contest. The Colts' defense registered only two quarterback hits. 

Granted, some of the effort is Stroud getting the ball out and the Colts fielding an anemic pass rush. At the same time, a string of good performances allows Houston's front five to build confidence when it's needed the most. 

Colts Takeaway: Historic Collapse Should Signal Some Change

A week ago, this column made an argument the Colts should concentrate more on what went right to start the season instead of everything that went wrong to end it.

That argument remains, but a caveat needs to be added. 

Indianapolis doesn't need to move on from general manager Chris Ballard or head coach Shane Steichen after losing six straight games to end the 2025 regular season. However, something needs to be done with the defense.

Maybe the team moves past Lou Anarumo and hires another coordinator. Personnel changes are a necessity, with the Colts likely dropping a few high-priced veterans who did not get the job done when the team needed it the most. 

Loser: CB Sauce Gardner, Indianapolis Colts

Gardner didn't even play Sunday, and that's part of the problem. 

The Colts went all in prior to this season's trade deadline and acquired him from the New York Jets. His addition made sense and still does. But a calf injury limited his participation, which hampered the Colts' defense. The defense desperately needed him on the field, too. 

From a personal perspective, Gardner experienced only two wins this season despite playing for two different teams. Meanwhile, the Colts gave up a pair of first-round picks to acquire the defensive back's services, which turned into a top-20 selection this year since Indianapolis missed the postseason. 

Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants

AP Photo/Adam Hunger

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart

Score: Giants 34, Cowboys 17

Giants Takeaway: New York Didn't Pack It In For Draft Positioning

The New York Giants entered Sunday's action with an opportunity to gain the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft with a loss and a Las Vegas Raiders win. Instead, the Giants cared far more about going into the offseason on a two-game winning streak. 

The chance to tank is often discussed, but this game showed the Giants prioritized competing and winning.

The Giants have their future quarterback in Jaxson Dart and still own a high selection. The organization had no reason whatsoever to worry about draft positioning and didn't.

Winner: WR Gunner Olszewski, New York Giants

In the wide receiver's seventh season, Olszewski finally registered his first career 100-yard game. 

Previously, Olszewski made a career as an excellent special teams performer. He entered Sunday's meeting with 223 career receiving yards. 

Dart targeted the slot receiver often, and Olszewski caught eight passes for 102 yards. 

No one should expect the 29-year-old veteran to become a big-time weapon next season, but he could very well become a legitimate part of the Giants offense if he re-signs with the team. 

Cowboys Takeaway: Where's the Defense?

The Cowboys need to invest everything it possibly can in their defense this offseason. 

Allowing 380 yards to a depleted Giants offense is unacceptable, but the Dallas defense has struggled all season.

A reset is necessary, both schematically and personnel-wise. Clearly, Micah Parsons covered up a lot when he played for the team, because this version of the Cowboys defense consistently underperformed.

Loser: DC Matt Eberflus, Dallas Cowboys

Eberflus' return to Dallas didn't go well, to the point where his dismissal should be expected. 

The Cowboys finished 30th in total defense and dead last in pass D. 

Dallas' offense is too good to be continually wasted, because the defense isn't capable of playing complementary football. 

Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals

AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel

Browns EDGE Myles Garrett

Score: Browns 20, Bengals 18

Browns Takeaway: Myles Garrett Makes NFL History

It has been another frustrating season in Cleveland. Major changes are coming in 2026, including quite possibly a new head coach and quarterback.

But we're going to accentuate the positive in Cleveland's season-ending win, and give some dap to the probable NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

Edge-rusher Myles Garrett has long been one of the game's best at his position. He has more sacks before the age of 30 than any player in NFL history. And now, after getting to Joe Burrow for his 23rd sack of the season in the fourth quarter of Sunday's win, Garrett holds the record for the most sacks in a single campaign.

Congrats to No. 95.

Winner: LB Devin Bush Jr., Cleveland Browns

Defense hasn't been a problem for the Browns this year, and while linebacker Devin Bush doesn't get a lot of credit for Cleveland's defensive success, the former first-round pick and pending free agent played a major role for the Browns in 2025.

Bush entered Sunday's game second on the team with 111 total tackles, and with rookie Carson Schwesinger sidelined by injury Bush was everywhere against Cincinnati, pacing the team with 14 stops and returning an interception 97 yards for a touchdown.

Bengals Takeaway: A Critical Offseason Begins in the Queen City

When the 2025 season began, the Bengals certainly had bigger aspirations than winning six games. The question in Cincinnati now is what the team does next.

An argument can be made that a change should be made at head coach, but there has been nothing to indicate that Zac Taylor's job is in real jeopardy. What can't be argued is that a bad Bengals defense needs a makeover from front to back.

The Bengals have the cap space to be aggressive in free agency—just over $69 million per Over the Cap. But the more important task for the team may well be adding cheap talent via the draft—an area where Cincinnati has struggled on defense in recent years.

Loser: Fans Who Showed Up for Sunday's Loss

Sunday's loss to the hapless Browns was Cincinnati's 2025 season in a nutshell—and that is not a compliment.

This was a game where the Bengals outgained Cleveland 364-200. Where Joe Burrow threw three touchdown passes. Where Ja'Marr Chase had yet another big game. Where the Bengals had an 11-minute edge in time of possession.

But thanks to a pair of turnovers (including a pick-six) and ill-timed miscues on both sides of the ball, the Bengals came up short.

And that's a movie that fans at Paycor Stadium saw far too many times this year.

Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings

AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin

Minnesota Vikings quarterback JJ McCarthy

Score: Vikings 16, Packers 3

Vikings Takeaway: Reinvest in Quarterback Position

The Minnesota Vikings should feel great about winning their season finale and final five contests to give the team a winning record (9-8) after sitting at 4-8 as the calendar turned to December. 

However, JJ McCarthy's inability to stay healthy has to be a major concern entering the offseason. 

McCarthy didn't finish Sunday's contest due to a lingering hand injury. The second-year quarterback played in only 10 games after missing all of last season due to a knee injury. 

The Vikings can move forward with the intention of McCarthy still being the long-term starter. Though the front office must seriously consider bringing in a veteran alternative as a strong backup option, with the potential to start if McCarthy doesn't show more in Year 3. 

Winner: Edge Dallas Turner, Minnesota Vikings

Much like McCarthy, Turner didn't do much as a rookie. Though his lack of production didn't involve a season-ending injury. 

Unlike his 2025 first-round classmate, the defensive lineman turned the corner—figuratively and literally—in Year 2. 

Turner registered a pair of sacks Sunday against the Packers. The 22-year-old's 6.5 sacks during the Vikings' last eight games provided Minnesota's pass rush with some extra juice. 

Packers Takeaway: Green Bay Protects Its Starters

Green Bay knew it was locked into the seventh seed and saw no reason to risk injury with its top performers. 

Unsurprisingly, the Packers couldn't muster much of anything throughout Sunday's game. Green Bay managed 121 total yards on 50 offensive plays. 

An argument can be made whether resting players is wise prior to the start of the postseason. The Packers made their decision, which is why Sunday's result didn't mean much. 

Loser: QB Malik Willis, Green Bay Packers

With Willis on the inactive list, the Packers' backup didn't get one last opportunity to build his resume before becoming a free agent this offseason. 

An injured Jordan Love is expected back in the lineup for the postseason, which means Willis' time in Green Bay could be done. 

Willis has shown plenty to get a chance to start elsewhere, but he could have cemented his status as one of the top available quarterbacks with another strong outing. 

Tennessee Titans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

AP Photo/John Raoux

Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Brenton Strange (left) and quarterback Trevor Lawrence

Score: Jaguars 41, Titans 7

Jaguars Takeaway: Jacksonville Claims AFC South Crown

A year ago, Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shahid Khan said the organization assembled the best team in its history and "winning now" became the expectation. 

Instead, the Jags won only four games, fired its coaching staff and eventually moved on from previous general manager Trent Baalke. 

The new regime finally maximized the talent found on Jacksonville's roster, particularly quarterback Trevor Lawrence. As a result, the Jags took control of the AFC South thanks to an eight-game winning streak to end the regular season. 

Winner: TE Brenton Strange, Jacksonville Jaguars

As Lawrence gained confidence over the second half of the regular season, his comfort level with certain targets grew. 

Parker Washington is the obvious example after back-to-back 100-yard games entering Sunday's contest. Tight end Brenton Strange became the beneficiary against the Tennessee Titans. 

Strange posted his first career outing with at least six catches and a touchdown reception. With the playoffs set to begin, Lawrence can drop back knowing Strange, Washington, Jakobi Meyers and Brian Thomas Jr. can do some damage. 

Titans Takeaway: Roster Building Now Begins in Earnest

Tennessee enters the offseason with the intention of hiring a new coaching staff. Ownership already restructured the decision-making process among the front office. The next step is building around quarterback Cam Ward. 

The Titans will own a top-four draft pick for the second consecutive year. With quarterback off the board, Tennessee's concentration turns to obtaining the best available talent. 

An emphasis doesn't need to be placed on offense with the first-round pick, but the rest of the class should include multiple weapons to help Ward's development. 

Loser: QB Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans

Unfortunately, Ward couldn't finish the final game of his rookie season. After starting all 18 games, last year's No. 1 overall pick finished his first campaign on the bench thanks to a shoulder injury. 

Ward is the Titans' future. At the same time, he would have been far better off going into the offseason concentrating entirely on honing his craft instead of dealing with whatever degree of injury he suffered, while being forced to rehab. 

New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons

AP Photo/Mike Stewart

Atlanta Falcons QB Kirk Cousins

Score: Falcons 19, Saints 17

Falcons Takeaway: Atlanta Probably Should Have Won the NFC South

Sunday's win over the New Orleans Saints felt like a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, the Atlanta Falcons got to wrap their season with a big division win. On the other hand, the team's early-season struggles made the victory relatively meaningless.

No team in the NFC South has played better football than the Falcons. Yet, they were eliminated from playoff contention back in Week 14. Though Atlanta finished in a three-way tie for the top spot in the division, it couldn't claim its first division title since 2016.

It's a shame because, in recent weeks, the Falcons have looked like a team that could potentially go deep into the postseason.

Winner: QB Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons

Sunday marked Kirk Cousins' final chance to audition for his NFL future, whether that's in Atlanta or elsewhere. The 37-year-old took a back seat to 2024 first-round pick Michael Penix Jr. to open the season and only got another opportunity because of Penix's season-ending ACL tear.

Cousins had an up-and-down day against an underrated Saints defense, but he finishes his 2025 campaign with a 5-3 record and plenty of reasons to believe he could be a viable starter in 2026. He could be an option for the Falcons, given Penix's recovery, but Atlanta could also save $32.5 million in cap space by trading him in the offseason.

Expect a few QB-needy teams to inquire about Cousins in the coming weeks.

Saints Takeaway: The Future With Tyler Shough Looks Promising

New Orleans was also eliminated early in the year, though the Saints' 2025 expectations were always modest. Since rookie Tyler Shough took over at quarterback in Week 9, though, this has been a team on the rise.

The Saints won four straight coming into Sunday's game. Shough managed to give Atlanta everything it could handle with a patchwork offensive line and with skill players like Chris Olave, Alvin Kamara, and Taysom Hill injured.

New Orleans has a QB it can build around in Shough, and it should be firmly in the divisional mix next season.

Loser: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers

There were no bigger losers in this contest than the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They needed a Saints win to make the postseason, and they didn't get it.

Tampa was 6-2 heading into its Week 9 bye, yet finished in a three-way tie with the Falcons and Carolina Panthers for the best record in the division at 8-9. The round-robin tiebreaker went to Carolina, leaving the Buccaneers at home for the playoffs.

Of course, the Bucs have no one to blame but themselves for collapsing down the stretch and putting their fate in the hands of two division rivals.

Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers

AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold

Score: Seahawks 13, 49ers 3

Seahawks Takeaway: Sam Darnold Writes New Chapter in His Draft Bust Redemption Story

Darnold made critical completions to Cooper Kupp on third downs to move the chains in the fourth quarter, which allowed the Seahawks to ice the game.

Once seen as a bust from the 2018 draft, Darnold has helped lead the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks to 14 wins in back-to-back campaigns. This time, his squad will get a first-round bye. 

If there was any question about whether Darnold failed at his previous stops or if the clubs failed him, it's clear that those teams didn't provide the structure for the signal-caller to succeed. In the right situation, the 28-year-old is a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback who can win a lot of games. Now, Darnold must prove it in the postseason.

Winner: Seattle Seahawks Defense

The Seahawks defense limited the 49ers' red-hot aerial attack with airtight coverage. Coming into Saturday's game, Brock Purdy threw for 11 touchdowns and two interceptions over his previous three outings, and he had fun doing the Dougie along the way.

Purdy didn't get a chance to dance against the Seahawks. For the first time this season, he finished without a touchdown pass, and San Francisco failed to reach the end zone.

49ers Takeaway: San Francisco's Mounting Injuries Could Be a Significant Issue in the Playoffs

Starting in November, the 49ers gained momentum with a six-game winning streak, but they beat up on teams below .500 for most of that stretch. San Francisco's quality victories were against the Indianapolis Colts and Chicago Bears. The Colts had 44-year-old Philip Rivers under center.

Even in the 49ers' win over the Bears, you can see the issues that could eventually derail their season. San Francisco's banged-up defense allowed nearly 500 yards in that game. 

To make matters worse, All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams suffered a hamstring injury that sidelined him early in that contest, and he missed Saturday's outing.

Without their defensive stars, edge-rusher Nick Bosa and linebacker Fred Warner, the 49ers will struggle to get off the field on third downs, as we saw against the Seahawks. Linebackers Dee Winters (ankle) and Tatum Bethune (groin) exited Saturday's game with injuries. If Williams isn't back for the playoffs, Purdy will have less time to make throws downfield while facing pocket pressure. 

Despite key injuries, the 49ers went on a run and battled for the NFC's No. 1 seed, but it may be too much for them to overcome in January.

Loser: QB Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers

Purdy completed 19 out of 27 passes for 127 yards and an interception. Late in the fourth quarter, he took a hard hit after banging his thumb on a helmet. The 26-year-old finished the game in the blue medical tent with a bloody thumb and a subpar passing stat line.

With the 49ers' loss, Purdy only has a week to shake off this performance before going on the road to play a division leader in the playoffs.

Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

AP Photo/Jason Behnken

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton

Score: Buccaneers 16, Panthers 14

Buccaneers Takeaway: Buccaneers Will Be One-And-Done in Playoffs If They Get Help from New Orleans Saints

The Buccaneers kept their playoff hopes alive, though they still need the Saints to beat the Atlanta Falcons to clinch the NFC South title, because the Panthers would win the head-to-head tiebreaker among three 8-9 squads within the division.

The Buccaneers eked out a victory over the Panthers on Saturday, but despite being mostly healthy on offense, they're still far from the team that started the season 6-2 before their Week 9 bye. If Tampa Bay makes the playoffs with a sub-.500 record, it will be a heavy home underdog against an NFC West opponent.

Winner: TE Cade Otton, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Otton put the Buccaneers' passing attack on his broad shoulders, hauling in seven of his nine targets for 94 yards and a touchdown. He accounted for 46 percent of Tampa Bay's receiving yards. 

At an opportune time, Otton recorded a season-high in receiving yards, which was also his second-highest single-game total in his four-year career.

Panthers Takeaway: Panthers' Missed Opportunities Show Why They're So Inconsistent

Before the loss to Tampa Bay, Carolina alternated wins and losses since Week 7. The Panthers haven't been able to establish consistency, largely due to self-inflicted errors and missed opportunities.

On Saturday, the Panthers missed a field goal, fumbled on a flea-flicker and quarterback Bryce Young threw an interception near midfield. Carolina lost the turnover battle 3-1. 

With that said, we also pointed out Carolina coming out flat in its home opener last week, missing an opportunity to lock up the division title.

Now, the Panthers need help from a division rival, the Falcons, to punch their playoff ticket for them, which isn't the best way to celebrate a playoff berth. Carolina could still win the division, but it still feels like a team of pretenders. 

Loser: HC Dave Canales, Carolina Panthers

Canales, Carolina's head coach and primary offensive play-caller, called for a gadget play at the wrong moment. After the Panthers converted on their first and only third down of the game, they attempted a flea-flicker. Running back Rico Dowdle slipped, which resulted in a sloppy pitch back to Young and a fumble inside the red zone. 

If Canales had continued to run his offense without trying to trick the Buccaneers defense, Carolina would have at least had a short field goal, which would have changed the complexion of the final stretch.