Thomas Harper of the Las Vegas Raiders is making waves as a standout undrafted free agent, showcasing his versatility with a notable 93.2 PFF grade during Week 17. As a special teams contributor, Harper's performance has positioned him as a potential starting safety for the future.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are benefiting from a strong rookie class that includes Omar Speights and Jaylen McCollough, both of whom have made significant impacts this season. The emergence of these players highlights the potential of undrafted talent in the NFL.

Joe Andreessen, a rookie linebacker for the Buffalo Bills, made a bold decision at the coin toss before the game against the New York Jets, choosing to receive the kickoff instead of deferring. This atypical choice reflected head coach Sean McDermott's strategic thinking, influenced by adverse weather conditions anticipated in the second half. Andreessen, a local hero from Depew, NY, has transformed his lifelong dream into reality after successfully joining the team following a tryout, proving himself as a consistent special teams player.

The 24-year-old has earned his place on the roster through hard work and determination, leading the Bills in tackles during the season. As he prepares for the divisional round against the Baltimore Ravens, Andreessen's journey from devoted fan to a professional player embodies the spirit of the Buffalo community. His family's support and his personal dedication highlight the emotional connection he has with both the franchise and its fans.

Buffalo Bills linebacker Terrel Bernard has been listed on the injury report but is expected to recover in time for the postseason opener. Coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Bernard will not play in the upcoming regular season finale against the New England Patriots to aid his recovery from a quad issue.

Bernard, a key player on the Bills' defense, has shown significant improvement since Week 18, participating in limited practices. The 25-year-old, who has started 13 games this season, is recognized as the team's on-field communicator and has demonstrated strong performance in both run defense and pass coverage.

In last year's playoffs, Bernard was sidelined due to an ankle injury during a critical matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, which highlighted his importance to the team's defensive lineup. With Bernard out for the final regular season game, rookie linebacker Joe Andreessen is expected to take on a larger role.

The Buffalo Bills are facing injury challenges as they prepare for Week 18 following their decisive 40-14 victory against the New York Jets. Starting linebacker Terrel Bernard has suffered a quad muscle injury and will not participate in the upcoming regular season finale. Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Bernard, a key team captain, will focus on recovery as the Bills have already secured the AFC's No. 2 seed.

In the win over the Jets, Bernard played 37 snaps, significantly contributing to the team's defensive efforts. His absence, alongside Baylon Spector's placement on injured reserve, will lead to increased responsibilities for undrafted rookie Joe Andreessen, who emerged as the team's leading tackler in the last game.

In a remarkable moment for Buffalo Bills rookie linebacker Joe Andreessen, the Lancaster native was selected as a gameday captain for the Week 17 matchup against the New York Jets. This honor came prior to the coin toss, marking a significant milestone in Andreessen's journey from a minicamp tryout to a position on the 53-man roster. His teammates expressed their support during the announcement, making the occasion even more special for the young player.

Andreessen not only served as captain but also made a substantial impact on the field during the Bills' decisive 40-14 victory. He participated in the game as a defensive player in the fourth quarter, contributing significantly by leading the team with eight tackles across 26 defensive snaps. His performance was a testament to his hard work and determination throughout the season, where he has mainly been involved in special teams.

At just 24 years old, Andreessen's journey highlights the unpredictability of the NFL, where perseverance can lead to unexpected opportunities. He reflected on his experience, emphasizing the importance of game reps and the thrill of making tackles in a competitive environment. This game not only solidified his role on the team but also showcased the potential for a promising career ahead.