NFL Week 17 Recap: Playoff Hopes on the Line as Key Players Sit Out
Week 17 of the 2025 NFL season kicked off with a series of games on Christmas Day, followed by more matchups on Saturday, including the Green Bay Packers facing the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens emerged victorious in a game where Lamar Jackson was absent, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Currently, Baltimore has an 18.40% chance of winning the AFC North and securing a postseason spot, but a win by the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Cleveland Browns could end the Ravens' season. The action continues with a packed schedule on Sunday, featuring 10 games, and concludes with a Monday Night Football showdown between the Los Angeles Rams and the Atlanta Falcons.
Several key players are ruled out for Week 17, including Maxx Crosby, Alvin Kamara, and Rashee Rice. In addition to these absences, other star players will also be sidelined for various reasons. Marvin Harrison Jr., who was questionable last week, is set to play against the Cincinnati Bengals. Harrison ranks 45th among receivers this season based on PFSN's WR Impact metric.
The list of inactives for Week 17 includes players from multiple teams. The Cardinals, Bengals, Jaguars, Colts, Steelers, Browns, Buccaneers, Dolphins, Saints, Titans, Patriots, Jets, Seahawks, Panthers, Giants, and Raiders have players designated as out for this week's games. Dalton Kincaid, the fifth-ranked tight end this season according to PFSN's TE Impact metric, is listed as questionable for Week 17 after being limited in Friday's practice.
George Kittle's status for Week 17 is also uncertain, with the 49ers tight end considered highly unlikely to play against the Bears due to a sprained ankle. The Bears, Rams, and Falcons also have players designated as out for this week's matchups. As the regular season nears its end, injuries and player availability will continue to impact the outcomes of games and the playoff picture.