Fri Dec 26 00:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the NFL playoff picture as of Week 17, based on the provided text:

NFL Playoff Picture Heats Up as Week 17 Underway

As Week 17 of the NFL season gets underway, the playoff landscape is rapidly taking shape, with several teams securing their spots and others fighting for their postseason lives. USA TODAY Sports will provide weekly updates on the evolving picture through the end of the regular season on January 4th, analyzing the key matchups and tiebreaker scenarios that will determine the final seven teams in each conference.

AFC: Race to the Top Tightens

In the AFC, the Denver Broncos (12-3) currently lead the AFC West, but a loss to Jacksonville has left the door open for the New England Patriots (12-3) to snatch the top seed. The Jacksonville Jaguars (11-4) have clinched a playoff berth after an impressive win over Denver and the Colts’ loss. The Pittsburgh Steelers (9-6) control their own destiny in the AFC North. The Los Angeles Chargers (11-4) have clinched a playoff spot while the Buffalo Bills (11-4) are also in the playoffs. The Houston Texans (10-5) have won eight of their last nine and holding down the final Wild Card spot. The Indianapolis Colts (8-7) and Baltimore Ravens (7-8) are on the outside looking in.

NFC: Seahawks and Bears Vie for Top Spot

The Seattle Seahawks (12-3) and Chicago Bears (11-4) are battling for the top seed in the NFC. The Philadelphia Eagles (10-5) have already secured the NFC East title. The Carolina Panthers (8-7) now control their own destiny in the NFC South, while the San Francisco 49ers (11-4) have clinched a Wild Card spot, as have the Los Angeles Rams (11-4). The Green Bay Packers (9-5-1) have also secured a playoff berth. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-8) remain in the hunt for the NFC South title.

Key Matchups Ahead

Several key matchups over the next two weeks will determine the final playoff seedings. Denver needs to win out to secure the AFC’s top spot, while Seattle faces tough tests against Carolina and San Francisco. The battles for division titles in the AFC North and NFC South remain fierce, promising an exciting finish to the regular season.

Stay tuned to USA TODAY Sports for continuous updates on the NFL playoff picture as the season winds down.

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