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.

In a matchup devoid of playoff stakes, the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12) are set to take on the Indianapolis Colts (7-9) in Indianapolis. This game, while lacking immediate playoff implications, holds significant draft ramifications for the Jaguars, who are vying for a better position in the upcoming NFL Draft. With nine teams closely contending for the top nine picks, the outcome could be pivotal for Jacksonville's future.

Both teams are expected to rely on backup quarterbacks, with Mac Jones leading the Jaguars and Joe Flacco under center for the Colts. Jones is looking to revive his career, while Flacco, nearing 40, may be playing his final NFL snaps. Jonathan Taylor aims to finish strong, having accumulated 450 rushing yards and five touchdowns in his last three games, despite a costly fumble earlier in the season.

The AFC South race is heating up as the Indianapolis Colts aim for a playoff spot, currently sitting at 6-8. Their upcoming games against the Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, and Jacksonville Jaguars present a chance to finish above .500. A win boosts their postseason chances to 11% while a loss drops them to just 1%.

Meanwhile, the Titans are struggling at 3-11, having lost three straight games. With Mason Rudolph back at quarterback, they face the challenge of competing against all AFC South teams in their final matches.

As the Colts prepare for their matchup against the Titans, key players like Jonathan Taylor are expected to play pivotal roles. The Colts are favored to win, but both teams are dealing with injuries that could impact their performance.

The Indianapolis Colts face a critical matchup against the Denver Broncos, with playoff implications hanging in the balance. The Colts, currently at 6-7, must secure a victory to keep their postseason hopes alive, as the Broncos hold a two-game lead and the final playoff spot in the AFC.

Injury concerns loom for both squads. The Colts have ruled out Ashton Dulin and have several key players, including Josh Downs and Mo Alie-Cox, listed as questionable. Meanwhile, the Broncos will be without starting cornerback Riley Moss, which could impact their defensive strategy.

The Indianapolis Colts made a significant move in the 2024 NFL draft by selecting defensive end Laiatu Latu with the 15th overall pick, breaking a 14-pick streak without defensive players. Latu has joined a formidable pass-rushing unit alongside established players like Kwity Paye and DeForest Buckner.

Despite playing only 53% of defensive snaps, Latu has made an impact, ranking as the 4th-best rookie in quarterback pressures with 33. His contributions include four sacks and three forced fumbles, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Colts as they approach a critical stretch in the season.