The Las Vegas Raiders have signed veteran cornerback Lonnie Johnson Jr. to bolster their secondary, especially after losing key players in free agency. Johnson, who had a standout season in 2021 with three interceptions and 55 tackles, appears set to contribute primarily on special teams, while also providing depth in the defensive backfield. As he joins the Raiders, Johnson is positioned behind Isaiah Pola-Mao and Thomas Harper on the depth chart for free safety.

While Johnson's contract situation remains unclear, the Raiders aim to build a more resilient defense after a season plagued by injuries. With the emphasis on establishing a new culture under the current coaching staff, Johnson's experience and tackling capabilities could potentially be utilized in blitz-heavy schemes, particularly with the pass-rushing strategy following Maxx Crosby's significant contract extension. If executed well, the Raiders' defensive front could become one of the fiercest in the NFL.

The Carolina Panthers will head into Week 18 without their standout cornerback, Jaycee Horn, who has been ruled out due to a hip injury. Horn, the only Panthers player selected for the Pro Bowl this season, did not participate in practice throughout the week and also missed the previous game. Despite his absence, Horn's impressive 2024 season included 68 combined tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 13 pass defenses, and 1 interception, marking a significant milestone in his career.

With Horn sidelined, the Panthers will likely rely on cornerbacks Michael Jackson and Caleb Farley during their matchup against the Atlanta Falcons on January 5. The Panthers have also listed four other players as inactive for the game, including linebackers Amare Barno, DJ Johnson, and Josey Jewell, along with cornerback Lonnie Johnson. Notably, Jewell has been a key player for the Panthers, starting 12 games and recording 97 combined tackles this season.

As the Panthers prepare for the crucial game against the Falcons, they face additional injury concerns. Offensive tackle Robert Hunt is questionable due to a knee injury, while fellow offensive tackle Taylor Moton and defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson are also uncertain after limited participation in practice. However, running back Miles Sanders has returned to full practice and is also listed as questionable.

The Falcons, needing a win to secure a playoff spot, will face the Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. They must win and hope for a loss from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to clinch their first postseason berth since 2017. The game is set to kick off at 1 pm ET, coinciding with the Buccaneers' matchup against the New Orleans Saints.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels faced a rib injury during the opening drive of the game against the Carolina Panthers, leading to his early exit. After a promising 46-yard run, he was tackled and subsequently left the field for medical evaluation.

Despite attempts to continue, Daniels was unable to play and was seen in street clothes after halftime. Fortunately, sources indicated that his X-ray results were positive.

Before his injury, Daniels had been a key player for the Commanders, showcasing impressive statistics in the season's first six games.

The Carolina Panthers have unveiled their depth chart for the upcoming game against the Washington Commanders, showing no significant alterations from the previous week.

Injury updates suggest potential returns for players like cornerback Dane Jackson, although they are not officially listed on the depth chart.