Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt will miss the 2024 NFL Pro Bowl Games due to injury, marking the first time in his career he won't participate after being selected in every season since his rookie year. The announcement confirmed that Baltimore Ravens linebacker Kyle Van Noy will take his place. Watt, a finalist for the Defensive Player of the Year award, had an impressive season, recording 61 tackles, 11.5 sacks, and a league-high six forced fumbles among other stats. Despite his injuries at the season's end, both ankle and thumb are not considered serious, allowing him to focus on rehabilitation during the offseason.

Watt's continuous dominance has earned him seven consecutive Pro Bowl selections, along with six All-Pro selections, showcasing his impact in the league. He was joined in the Pro Bowl roster by teammates Chris Boswell, Cam Heyward, and Minkah Fitzpatrick, while special teams player Mile Killebrew was named an alternative. While Watt takes time to recover, his extraordinary performance ensures he remains a key figure in Steelers' plans for the upcoming season.

With the conclusion of the league year in March, Carolina Panthers linebacker Shaq Thompson is set to enter free agency. Thompson, a first-round pick in 2015, has expressed his intentions to remain with the Panthers, but the team's recent draft of linebacker Tevin Wallace may affect their decision on Thompson's future. While Carolina's plans remain uncertain, NFL insiders suggest that both the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers could pursue Thompson due to their current defensive needs.

Despite coming off a serious Achilles injury, Thompson is anticipated to have a healthy market. His experience could be vital for teams like the Ravens, who are looking to enhance their inconsistent defense. The Chargers, facing possible departures of key players like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, might also see Thompson as a valuable addition to their linebacker depth. Although Thompson hopes to stay in Carolina, the lure of joining a playoff contender could sway his decision.

As the NFL playoffs heat up, Cody Benjamin takes over the Pick Six newsletter with insights on coaching changes and playoff predictions. Speculations are rife over Jason Witten potentially succeeding Mike McCarthy as the Cowboys’ head coach, while Mike Tomlin firmly denies any trade rumors, reinforcing his commitment to the Steelers.

The eight playoff teams have been ranked, with the Baltimore Ravens taking the top spot. Their balanced offense and strong defense make them dangerous contenders. Meanwhile, Pete Prisco has made bold predictions for the divisional round, favoring the Bills over the Ravens in what promises to be a thrilling matchup.

Buffalo's weather is set to challenge both teams with frigid temperatures and possible snow, adding another layer to this critical playoff clash. Additionally, teams that fell in the wild-card round, such as the Chargers and Packers, face pressing questions as they start plotting their futures.

Looking ahead, the Indianapolis Colts will host the NFL's first regular-season game in Berlin in 2025, marking a significant expansion for the league into international markets.

This weekend's NFL divisional round features a highly anticipated matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and the Buffalo Bills, showcasing two MVP candidates, Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. The stakes are high as both teams vie for a spot in the Super Bowl, with the Bills aiming to overcome a long history of playoff heartbreak, having not appeared in the championship since 1993. Meanwhile, the Ravens' last Super Bowl journey was in 2012, leading to added pressure on both franchises.

The game promises to be a thrilling encounter, set at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, where the Ravens (13-5) will face the Bills (14-4) at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday. Initially, the Bills were favored by 1.5 points, but changing betting trends have now placed the Ravens as the slight favorites. This line shift marks a historical moment for the Bills, who would be home underdogs in a playoff setting for the first time.

The Ravens' potential success hinges on the health of standout wide receiver Zay Flowers, who missed the last game due to a knee injury. His contribution as the team's leading receiver during the season could be pivotal against a strong Bills defense. Conversely, the Bills will rely on Allen to deliver impactful plays, although he struggled in their previous encounter, which saw the Ravens win decisively.

The NFL's 2024 regular season is approaching its conclusion with Week 18, providing players one final opportunity to achieve contract incentives. Many players are within reach of bonuses that not only add to their earnings but could also influence betting markets. Some teams, like the Philadelphia Eagles, may choose to rest key players ahead of the playoffs. Nonetheless, notable players like Saquon Barkley have already secured significant bonuses, including a $500,000 reward for surpassing 2,000 scrimmage yards.

Several players across the league are targeting specific milestones this week. For instance, Arizona Cardinals' Kyler Murray is just 50 rushing yards and one touchdown away from a $750,000 salary increase. Others, such as Baltimore Ravens' Kyle Van Noy and Buffalo Bills' Von Miller, are also close to lucrative bonuses. The stakes are high as players aim to maximize their earnings before the season ends.