In Week 17 of the NFL season, significant injuries impacted several key players, including Trent Williams of the San Francisco 49ers, Darnell Washington of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Geno Smith of the Las Vegas Raiders. These injuries will be evaluated over the coming week to determine potential timelines for recovery as the playoffs approach.
During the 49ers’ thrilling 42-38 victory over the Chicago Bears on December 29, Williams, a 12-time Pro Bowl selection, exited the game after just one snap due to a hamstring injury. Head Coach Kyle Shanahan indicated uncertainty regarding the injury’s severity. Williams had been a key contributor this season, starting all 16 games. Other players sidelined during the game included cornerback Upton Stout (concussion) and defensive lineman Keion White (groin). The Bears also faced setbacks, losing defensive lineman Joe Tryon Shoyinka (concussion) and linebacker Noah Sewell (ankle).
Injury Updates Across the League
In other notable incidents, Rashid Shaheed and Cody White, both wide receivers for the Seattle Seahawks, suffered injuries during their 27-10 victory against the Carolina Panthers. Shaheed is dealing with a concussion, while White has a groin injury. Panthers Head Coach Dave Canales confirmed tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders sustained a broken ankle in the match, further complicating the team’s roster as they prepare for a crucial game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Buccaneers also faced injury woes, with cornerback Jamel Dean leaving the game against the Miami Dolphins with a shoulder issue. Coach Todd Bowles mentioned that Dean’s shoulder ailment had been persistent throughout the season. The Dolphins, meanwhile, reported injuries to linebackers Jordyn Brooks (hamstring), K.J. Britt (groin), and Chop Robinson (concussion).
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin revealed that tight end Washington suffered a broken arm during a narrow 13-6 defeat against the Cleveland Browns. Washington had recorded two receptions for 15 yards before his exit from the game. The Browns also dealt with injuries, losing tight end Harold Fannin Jr. (groin) and guard Teven Jenkins (concussion).
Playoff Implications and Upcoming Matches
As the playoffs loom, the stakes are high for teams still vying for a spot. The 49ers (12-4) will host the Seattle Seahawks (13-3) on Saturday, while the Bears (11-5) will face the Detroit Lions (8-8) on Sunday. The NFC South remains up for grabs as the Panthers (8-8) prepare to take on the Buccaneers (7-9); the winner will secure the division title.
In a separate game, Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills appeared to exacerbate a previous right foot injury during a challenging 13-12 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite throwing for 262 yards and rushing for two touchdowns, Allen was limping but asserted that the injury did not affect his performance. The Bills (11-5) will host the New York Jets (3-13) in their regular season finale, while the Eagles (11-5) will face the Washington Commanders (4-12).
New York Jets running back Breece Hall exited the game during a 42-10 defeat to the New England Patriots due to a knee injury. Hall reached over 1,000 rushing yards for the first time in his career this season. The Jets also saw injuries to defensive back Qwan-tez Stiggers (knee) and running back Isaiah Davis (concussion).
As teams assess their injured players, the focus will remain on recovery and preparation for the upcoming playoff battles. The NFL’s Week 17 finale features the Atlanta Falcons (6-9) hosting the Los Angeles Rams (11-4) on Monday at 8:15 p.m. EST in Atlanta.
