The Washington Commanders are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17, with significant playoff implications on the line. As the Philadelphia Eagles have already clinched the NFC East, the Commanders are focused on securing a victory to enhance their chances of making the playoffs. This game is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first prime-time encounter in NFL history featuring two rookie quarterbacks selected in the first round of the draft, adding an extra layer of excitement to the contest.

With a potential opportunity to finish the regular season with an 11-5 record for the first time since 1987, the Commanders are eager to break a playoff drought that has persisted since 2020. The stakes are high as both teams vie for playoff berths and seeding, making this a must-watch game for fans and analysts alike.

In terms of roster updates, the Commanders will be without several key players, including quarterback Jeff Driskel and wide receiver Dyami Brown, while the Falcons will miss running back Carlos Washington and cornerback Kevin King among others. As the game approaches, fans are encouraged to stay tuned to CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for comprehensive coverage of the team's journey throughout the 2024 season.

The Washington Commanders are preparing for a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, with playoff implications on the line. However, the Commanders will be without several key players due to injuries and healthy scratches. Wide receiver Dyami Brown, cornerback Marshon Lattimore, linebacker Dominique Hampton, linebacker Jordan Magee, and offensive tackle Andrew Wylie have all been ruled out. Additionally, quarterback Jeff Driskel, listed as the emergency third QB, will also not participate in the game.

In a twist, the Commanders will see the debut of K.J. Osborn, a veteran wide receiver recently claimed off waivers from the New England Patriots. Osborn, who has been a healthy scratch in the last two games, will now be a target for quarterback Jayden Daniels in this critical contest.

On the other side, the Falcons have their own list of inactive players, including defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus, wide receiver Casey Washington, cornerback Kevin King, offensive linemen Tyrone Wheatley Jr. and Elijah Wilkinson, and running back Carlos Washington Jr. Notably, Kevin King is in concussion protocol, while the others are healthy scratches. The Falcons are entering the game in good health, which will be crucial as they aim to maintain their position in the competitive NFC South.

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET. Fans can follow the game and stay updated with coverage from the CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast throughout the 2024 season.

The New York Giants are set to welcome back all three starting cornerbacks for their upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons. This includes Deonte Banks, Cor’Dale Flott, and Dru Phillips, while Greg Stroman, Dee Williams, and Divaad Wilson will be inactive.

In addition, guard Aaron Stinnie is out due to a concussion, with Jake Kubas likely starting in his place. The Falcons will also have several key players inactive, including running back Carlos Washington and receiver Casey Washington.

The Atlanta Falcons are projected to select Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. with the 19th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, according to Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus. Despite recent drafts focusing on defensive linemen, the Falcons still lack a true edge rusher with speed capabilities.

Pearce is seen as a potential game-changer, showcasing elite burst and improved run defense. However, the Falcons' recent draft history raises questions about their ability to develop edge rushers, with past selections failing to make a significant impact.