Dec 25, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson (3) and Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) greet each other after their game at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Key NFL takeaways before Week 18 starts

NFL Week 18: QB shifts, injuries, playoffs

Week 18 sets the stage for high-stakes matchups, last-minute playoff pushes, and key decisions shaping the postseason. With playoff spots on the line, some teams are resting their stars while others rely on backups to step up. From quarterback changes to critical injuries, here’s everything you need to know heading into the final week of the regular season.

Chiefs turn to Carson Wentz for Week 18

Carson Wentz will start for the Kansas City Chiefs against the Denver Broncos, per head coach Andy Reid. This marks Wentz’s first start of the season. Last year, Wentz stepped into a similar situation in Week 18 for the Rams and delivered a solid performance.

Chris Jones, Patrick Mahomes, Trent McDuffie, Nick Bolton, Kareem Hunt, George Karlaftis, Travis Kelce, Justin Reid, and Drue Tranquill are doubtful for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

Isiah Pacheco, Jawaan Taylor, Mecole Hardman, and Jaylen Watson are out.
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) January 3, 2025

49ers name Joshua Dobbs as starting QB

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan announced Joshua Dobbs as the starting quarterback for their matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Dobbs, who stepped in for an injured Brock Purdy in Week 17, completed 3-of-4 passes for 35 yards and added a seven-yard rushing touchdown. With Purdy out, Dobbs will lead the offense, supported by Brandon Allen as backup.

Jauan Jennings needs 77 yards in the final week of the season to get to 1,000 for the year. Josh Dobbs is starting at QB for the 49ers. Could be a really cool moment for the former Tennessee Vols teammates. pic.twitter.com/GZ4ynnhRof
— zach ragan (@zachTNT) January 3, 2025

Also Read: Why is Josh Dobbs called “The Passtronaut” : Josh Dobbs Nickname Explained!

Jets conduct interviews for head coach role

The Jets have interviewed Mike Vrabel and Ron Rivera for their head coaching position, as confirmed by the team. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich is scheduled for an interview next week. Vrabel, who posted a 54-45 record with the Titans and led them to the AFC Championship in 2019, remains a top candidate this offseason. Rivera, a veteran with stints in Carolina and Washington, brings years of experience to the table.

We have completed an interview with Mike Vrabel for our Head Coach position.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) January 3, 2025

Rams rest Stafford; Jimmy Garoppolo to start

Sean McVay has confirmed that Jimmy Garoppolo will start for the Rams against the Seahawks, with Matthew Stafford sitting out to rest for the playoffs. The Rams, already NFC West champions, aim to keep Stafford healthy for the postseason. McVay noted this game offers Garoppolo valuable reps while allowing Stafford recovery time.

Jimmy Garoppolo told Nick Bosa and George Kittle he was sending them jerseys after the game.

All love from the guys to their former QB1. #FTTB | #49ers pic.twitter.com/26RTLMwaxe
— Matt Lively (@mattblively) December 13, 2024

Commanders rule out Marshon Lattimore

Cornerback Marshon Lattimore will miss Sunday’s game against the Cowboys due to a hamstring injury. Tyler Owens (ankle) and Jordan Magee are also sidelined for Washington. Lattimore’s absence could expose the Commanders’ secondary in a critical matchup.

Tua Tagovailoa unlikely to play; Huntley to start for Dolphins

Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa is “very unlikely” to play in Week 18 due to a hip injury. Tyler Huntley is expected to start against the Jets. This development complicates Miami’s postseason outlook.

It’s a shame that the Chargers have been so poverty recently because Justin Herbert is a top 5 QB and has had to deal with being in debates against “Tua Tagovailoa” instead of Lamar, Allen, Burrow, etc pic.twitter.com/aYu2LWYoIO
— Akash (@YZR_Fantasy) December 28, 2024

Aaron Jones cleared to play for Vikings

Aaron Jones (quad) has been removed from the injury report and will suit up against the Detroit Lions, per Tom Pelissero. Despite limited practice reps earlier in the week, Jones declared himself ready for this crucial divisional matchup.

Bengals RB Chase Brown a game-time decision

Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown is questionable for Saturday’s game against the Steelers, per head coach Zac Taylor. Brown, nearing 1,000 rushing yards this season, could push to play in this pivotal game. If unavailable, Khalil Herbert will take over as the lead back.

Most yards from scrimmage in a Bengals season.

1,773 – James Brooks (1986)
1,644 – Ja'Marr Chase (2024)

Can he get 130 more yards on Saturday night? pic.twitter.com/m6IUpjlgw4
— Goodberry (@JoeGoodberry) January 3, 2025

Packers’ Jaire Alexander out for the season

Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander will undergo knee surgery, ending his season. Injuries have limited him to just 14 games over the past two seasons. Alexander’s absence could hurt Green Bay’s defense as they approach the playoffs.

Eagles to rest starters, including Saquon Barkley

Head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed that the Eagles will rest key players, including Saquon Barkley, in Week 18 against the Giants. Barkley, 101 yards shy of Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record, will sit as the Eagles prioritize playoff health.

Image: Imagn

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Natasha Bose

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