Executive summary: Week 16 of the 2025 NFL season saw critical victories that dramatically altered the playoff picture, with the New England Patriots, Jacksonville Jaguars, Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Chicago Bears securing wins that either clinched postseason berths or strengthened their positions. These results have set the stage for a thrilling final two weeks of the regular season.
The action began with the Pittsburgh Steelers earning a dramatic 29-24 victory over the Detroit Lions in a game that ended in controversy. With seconds remaining, the Lions appeared to score a winning touchdown on a lateral play, but an offensive pass interference penalty nullified the score, handing the Steelers a crucial win that maintained their lead in the AFC North. Pittsburgh’s defense stepped up, with safety Kyle Dugger recording a safety in the third quarter, while the running game, led by Kenneth Gainwell, rushed for 230 yards, their highest total since 2016.
In another AFC showdown, the Jacksonville Jaguars stunned the conference-leading Denver Broncos with a 34-20 upset. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence continued his hot streak, throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for another, bringing his total to 18 touchdowns during the Jaguars’ six-game winning streak. Wide receiver Parker Washington had a career day with 145 receiving yards and a touchdown, exploiting gaps in Denver’s defense. The loss raised concerns for the Broncos, who had their 11-game win streak snapped and now face a tighter race for the top seed.
The New England Patriots secured a playoff spot with a 28-24 comeback win over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday Night Football. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye threw for 380 yards and two touchdowns, leading a fourth-quarter rally despite two turnovers. The Patriots overcame injuries to key players, including running back TreVeyon Henderson, who left with a concussion. For the Ravens, the loss was compounded by an injury to quarterback Lamar Jackson, who exited in the second half with a back issue, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy.
In the NFC, the Carolina Panthers took control of the NFC South by defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20. The Panthers’ defense came up with a key interception late in the game, and quarterback Bryce Young made critical plays to secure the lead. This win moves Carolina into first place in the division, positioning them for a potential playoff run after a mid-season surge.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears clinched their first playoff berth in five years with an overtime win over the Green Bay Packers, who lost quarterback Jordan Love to a concussion. The Bears’ victory, coupled with other results, solidified their position in the NFC wild card race. Other notable outcomes included the Seattle Seahawks ascending to the NFC’s top seed after an overtime win, and the Kansas City Chiefs struggling without Patrick Mahomes, losing to the Tennessee Titans.
As the season winds down, these Week 16 results have clarified the playoff landscape but left several races intensely competitive. The Patriots and Bears have punched their tickets, while teams like the Jaguars and Steelers have strengthened their cases. With two weeks remaining, injuries and momentum will be key factors, setting up a suspenseful finish to the 2025 NFL season.
