Buccaneers

• Buccaneers DB Christian Izien faced a fine of $5,102 for unnecessary roughness due to a blindside block in Week 16.
• In a standout performance against the Panthers, Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield threw for five touchdowns, making him the fifth player in NFL history to achieve over 350 passing yards, 5 or more touchdown passes, a passer rating of 150 or better, and an 80 percent or higher completion percentage. (NFL345)

Commanders

Washington rallied in the second half to secure a victory against the Falcons, clinching a postseason spot in Week 17. Commanders TE Zach Ertz praised QB Jayden Daniels for their success, emphasizing the franchise’s fortune in having a player of his caliber.

“It comes down to having a really good quarterback in this league,” Ertz noted, as reported by ESPN’s John Keim. “From the moment I arrived, I believed this guy isn’t just going to be good—he’s exceptional now.”

“With that position locked down, this organization is well positioned for future success.”

Ertz highlighted Daniels’ understated confidence, noting that the team recognizes his ability to deliver results without the need for dramatics.

“He’s the most mature rookie I’ve encountered. He possesses a quiet confidence and doesn’t need to be vocal; we all believe in him.”

Falcons

Since their bye week, Atlanta’s defense has shown significant improvement, enhancing their chances for playoff contention. According to Falcons DC Jimmy Lake, the pass rush has been consistently disruptive throughout the year, finally translating pressure into sacks.

“This improvement comes from hard work. There were games where the stat sheet showed zero sacks, yet we impacted the quarterback’s performance,” Lake shared, via Amna Subhan of the team’s website. “Even without direct statistics, our efforts were evident. Recently, we’ve started reaping the rewards of our hard work.”

Lake also credited the run defense for creating passing situations that allow the team to go after the quarterback more aggressively.

“Our rush defense has been at its peak these last few weeks, enabling us to pressure the passer. When we stop the run effectively, we can unleash our pass rush.”