Mike Williams is back with the Los Angeles Chargers, aiming to help the team transition under new head coach Jim Harbaugh. After a challenging season with the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers, where he recorded just 298 yards, Williams is eager to rediscover his form. His familiarity with the Chargers and quarterback Justin Herbert is expected to foster an instant chemistry on the field. The Chargers are bolstering their offense, bringing in Najee Harris and re-signing Taylor Heinicke, while also reshaping their defense.

Williams expressed optimism about the Chargers' playoff potential under Harbaugh, showcasing a commitment to compete for a Super Bowl. As the team modifies its roster, the return of Williams is a key part of their strategy to improve offensive performance and leverage Herbert's skills effectively.

The Los Angeles Chargers have officially extended backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke's contract through the 2026 season, a move that solidifies their quarterback depth behind Justin Herbert. The extension is reported to be worth up to $6.2 million. Heinicke, who turns 32 soon, joined the Chargers before the 2024 season and has already played four games for the team, though his impact has been limited to five pass attempts with three completions for 28 yards.

Known for his dynamic playstyle, Heinicke previously garnered attention during his tenure with the Washington Commanders, where he started 29 games and accumulated over 6,600 passing yards with 39 touchdowns. His performance in college at Old Dominion showcased his dual-threat ability, which saw him throw for nearly 15,000 yards and rack up 132 touchdowns, adding valuable running stats as well. This extension reflects the Chargers' commitment to having a reliable backup quarterback with starting experience in the NFL.

The Carolina Panthers are looking to fill their backup quarterback position, a need that has risen in importance following Bryce Young's impressive second half of the season. The team is reviewing various candidates from the open market, considering their fit alongside their starting QB. Their top choice appears to be Andy Dalton, who has established a solid rapport with Young and the coaching staff, making him a logical and familiar option for a seamless transition.

Other potential candidates include Taylor Heinicke, a veteran with prior ties to the Panthers, and Trey Lance, a former first-round pick who is seen as a project in need of development. Justin Fields is a tempting option as a dual-threat quarterback, and Jacoby Brissett could provide stability given his experience.

With competition heating up, the Panthers have several intriguing choices, but it remains to be seen who will ultimately fill the role.

Despite the ongoing wildfires in Southern California, both Los Angeles NFL teams, the Rams and Chargers, conducted outdoor practices while preparing for their playoff games. Smoke was evident at the Rams' facility, with some players opting for masks due to air quality concerns.

The Rams are set to host the Minnesota Vikings at SoFi Stadium, although the NFL remains prepared to relocate the game to State Farm Stadium in Arizona if necessary. Rams coach Sean McVay expressed optimism about playing at SoFi but acknowledged the fires' impact on their community.

Meanwhile, the Chargers are gearing up for their game against the Texans and managed to hold a shortened practice. Coach Jim Harbaugh reported the practice was adapted to account for the poor air quality, with players adjusting well.

As the Atlanta Falcons prepare for their pivotal matchup against the Carolina Panthers, questions surrounding quarterback Michael Penix Jr.'s future continue to dominate discussions. According to Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox, Penix's performance in Week 18 will significantly impact whether the Falcons pursue competition for the QB1 position in the offseason. With only two starts under his belt, Penix has struggled, tallying just one touchdown pass against two interceptions and a passer rating of 73.2.

Knox warns that a poor showing against the Panthers could sour the Falcons' outlook and potentially alter their quarterback strategy heading into 2025. However, some analysts argue that despite the pressure, the Falcons' commitment to Penix as their future starter remains unchanged. The team drafted him at No. 8 overall and is expected to move forward with him as the presumed starter regardless of the outcome on Sunday.