NFL Week 17 playoff picture: Clinching scenarios, standings - ESPN

Eight more NFL teams punched their ticket into the postseason during Week 16 of the 2025 NFL regular season, which is the most in a single week through a non-strike season in league history, per ESPN Research. That means 10 of 14 teams have qualified for the playoffs with two weeks to go.

The Seahawks got in after beating the Rams on Thursday night, and the Eagles made it with a victory Saturday. On Sunday, a loss for the Lions meant the 49ers and Bears clinched. The Patriots secured a postseason spot by beating the Ravens on Sunday night. Finally, the Bills, Chargers and Jaguars all clinched after the Colts lost to the 49ers on «Monday Night Football.»

So what's at stake in Week 17? Five AFC teams and four NFC teams have a chance to secure something this week, whether it be a No. 1 seed, divisional title or playoff berth. Let's take a look at Week 17 clinching scenarios for those nine teams.

More NFL playoff race coverage:
Projecting the final seeding
FPI ratings for every team
Projected 2026 draft order

The matchup: at Kansas City on Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video

How the Broncos can clinch the AFC West:

Win + L.A. Chargers loss vs. Houston (4:30 p.m. ET, Saturday)

How the Broncos can clinch the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage in the AFC:

Win + L.A. Chargers loss vs. Houston (4:30 p.m. ET, Saturday) + New England loss at N.Y. Jets (1 p.m. ET, Sunday) + Buffalo loss vs. Philadelphia (4:25 p.m. ET, Sunday) + Jacksonville loss at Indianapolis (1 p.m., Sunday)

The matchup: at L.A. Chargers on Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET, NFL Network

How the Texans can clinch a playoff berth:

Win or

Indianapolis loss vs. Jacksonville (1 p.m. ET, Sunday) or

Kansas City win vs. Denver (8:15 p.m., Thursday) + Baltimore win at Green Bay