With most of the NFL Week 18 schedule in the books, it’s time to take a look at some of the biggest winners and losers around the NFL.
Winners
Bo Nix, quarterback, Denver Broncos
For the first time since the 2015 season, the Denver Broncos are back in the playoffs, and their rookie quarterback is a big part of that return. Nix was sensational on Sunday in a 38-0 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, completing 26-of-29 passes for 321 yards and four touchdowns. He finished his rookie season with 29 touchdown passes and rapidly improved as the season progressed. The Broncos have their quarterback.
Bryce Young, quarterback, Carolina Panthers
The Panthers embraced the role of playing spoiler on Sunday and picked up a 44-38 overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons. It was not only another strong game for their second-year quarterback, it also might have been the best game of his career. Young completed 25-of-34 passes for 251 yards, three touchdowns and ran for two more. The Panthers played close games throughout the entire second half, while Young showed real signs of progress after his early season benching. They ended the season on a very high note.
Mike Evans, wide receiver, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
What a great day for Evans. Not only did he help the Buccaneers get a win over the New Orleans Saints to clinch the NFC South, but he also caught nine passes for 89 yards. While that might not seem like a huge stat line, it had significant meaning for Evans. His catch on the last play of the game put him over the 1,000-yard mark to give him 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, matching a record held by Hall of Famer Jerry Rice. It also gave Evans a $3 million performance bonus.
