NFL Week 15 INSTANT reactions: what's next for Chiefs, AFC dark horse contenders, Broncos take 1-seed

Broncos linebacker Justin Strnad is facing potential concerns regarding a serious ankle injury, raising alarms for the team's defensive lineup. In contrast, running back RJ Harvey appears to be in a better position regarding his health status.

The Kansas City Chiefs have been eliminated from the playoffs, prompting discussions among analysts Andrew Siciliano, Charles Robinson, and Frank Schwab about the future of the team and whether their dynasty is on pause or over. The conversation also touches on Micah Parsons' ACL injury and the Denver Broncos' impressive 11-game win streak, raising questions about the competitive landscape in the AFC.

The Denver Broncos have signed a former running back from the Jacksonville Jaguars ahead of their Week 16 matchup, a move that raises questions about the team's strategy and roster decisions as they approach the critical phase of the season.

The Miami Dolphins and Pittsburgh Steelers are set to face off in a crucial Monday Night Football matchup, with significant playoff implications for both teams as they vie for postseason contention in the AFC. This game marks the return of the Steelers' 'color rush' uniforms, adding an element of excitement to the primetime event.

The Washington Commanders have announced that quarterback Jayden Daniels will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season due to an elbow injury. This decision comes after Daniels re-injured his elbow during a recent game against the Minnesota Vikings, where he had just returned from a previous injury. The team is now down to the final three weeks of the regular season, making this news particularly impactful.

Interim head coach Mike McCoy of the Tennessee Titans expressed a heartfelt message regarding Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes ahead of their upcoming game. McCoy acknowledged Mahomes as a great competitor, highlighting the respect he holds for the Chiefs' star player as the Titans aim to improve their performance this season.

The NFL's Christmas schedule has been significantly impacted as several teams have fallen out of playoff contention, leading to a less appealing lineup for viewers. This decline in competitive matchups diminishes the excitement typically associated with holiday games, which are crucial for maintaining high viewership during this festive period.

Matthew Stafford remains the favorite for the NFL MVP award as of December 2025, despite a notable surge from Josh Allen, who is gaining traction in the race. Stafford's consistent performance has kept him at the forefront of MVP discussions, reflecting his pivotal role in the Los Angeles Rams' success this season.