Lions

Lions safety Jamal Adams revealed that he received an offer to join the Seahawks after being released by the Titans.

“It was a while, man. I left during the bye week and basically just came back, and it wasn’t going well. I wasn’t playing, they weren’t utilizing me, and I felt like I was wasting my time. I wanted to go to a place where I felt wanted and could contribute. So, I went home and trained for about 10 weeks. I had several opportunities, including one to return to Seattle. I hesitated about going back after my release, so I took some time to enjoy family time. I spent time with my nieces and nephews, something I hadn’t done in a long time. Then I got the call from Detroit, and it was a no-brainer. It was an opportunity to chase a ring, and that’s what it’s about,” Adams stated, according to Tyler Dunne.

Lions

Lions safety Kerby Joseph added two interceptions in Week 17, bringing his season total to nine, and leading the league in interceptions. Joseph discussed how he aimed for more turnovers after recording eight in his first two years with the team.

“I envisioned it,” Joseph expressed, as reported by Tim Twentyman from the team’s website. “I didn’t set a specific number; I just wanted to lead the pack. I aimed to stand out and be great in this league. I don’t want to be an average player; I want to excel.”

Vikings

The Vikings improved to 14-2 with a win over the Packers in Week 17, setting the stage for a decisive NFC North matchup against the Lions to conclude the year. Minnesota running back Aaron Jones praised head coach Kevin O’Connell for boosting team confidence and placing the players in positions to succeed each week.

“K.O. has faith in us, and if he believes that we can get it done, then we believe it too,” Jones said, as mentioned by SI.com’s Albert Breer. “If it’s a fourth down and he keeps us on the field, he’s confident, and so are we. He knows how to call the best plays to get us into the right situations.”

Jones also shared positive remarks about quarterback Sam Darnold, highlighting his toughness and leadership throughout his unique journey.

“Sam is resilient. He’s an underdog and tough as they come. You might see him get hit, come out for a play, and then come right back in. He may even be hobbling, but he stays in for the long haul. He’s a true leader, keeping us calm, cool, and collected in the huddle.”

• O’Connell mentioned that defensive end Patrick Jones II (knee) has a chance to play in Week 18, while Jones (quad) should be available. (Ian Rapoport)