The NFL wild-card round showcased some exceptional talent, with players like Tony Jefferson and Alohi Gilman from the Los Angeles Chargers highlighting the defensive prowess. Jefferson, with a staggering 95.0 grade, made pivotal plays, including a crucial forced fumble. Meanwhile, quarterback Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens impressed with a career-high 93.0 postseason grade, leading all offensive players. The matchups also featured standout performances from rookies like Ladd McConkey, who set a record for receiving yards by a rookie in a postseason game.

As the playoffs progress, the focus shifts to the elite quarterbacks, with Josh Allen from the Buffalo Bills and Jackson leading the pack. Allen's impressive wild-card performance boosts his playoff grade to 91.2, ranking fourth since 2006. Notably, the 2025 NFL Draft season is on the horizon, inviting fans to engage in mock drafts and learn about future prospects.

PFF's Team of the Week highlights standout performances, focusing on players who excelled in both grades and snap counts. The selections reflect a blend of efficiency and endurance, showcasing the best in each position.

Leading the offense is Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens at QB, alongside standout players like Derrick Henry and rookie sensation Ladd McConkey of the Los Angeles Chargers, who earned Offensive Player and Rookie of the Week honors for their impressive contributions. Defensively, the lineup features notable talents such as Derek Stingley Jr. from the Houston Texans, who excelled with two interceptions in a critical game.

In a disappointing playoff defeat, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert faced the media after a 32-12 loss to the Houston Texans, expressing regret for his performance. He acknowledged, 'I let the team down,' highlighting his struggle with ball security. Herbert's playoff statistics were notably poor, completing only 14 of 32 passes, marking the lowest completion percentage in Chargers playoff history since 2006. Additionally, he became the first player in NFL history to throw more interceptions in a playoff game than throughout the regular season.

During the game, Herbert's first interception occurred in the second quarter while attempting to connect with receiver Quentin Johnston. Another costly mistake came in the third quarter when a pass intended for Ladd McConkey was intercepted and returned for a touchdown. Herbert's challenges were compounded by a lack of protection from his offensive line, leading to four sacks and significant pressure throughout the game.

The Los Angeles Chargers' 2024 season has concluded following a disappointing 32-12 defeat against the Houston Texans. Despite a promising start, where the Chargers managed to advance the ball effectively, they settled for field goals instead of capitalizing on scoring opportunities. The Chargers quickly established a lead at 6-0 after a fumble recovery by Alohi Gilman, but offensive struggles persisted.

Justin Herbert's performance was particularly troubling; he threw four interceptions, including one that was returned for a touchdown. Rookie Ladd McConkey emerged as a standout, recording nine receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown. An 86-yard touchdown from McConkey briefly ignited hope for a comeback, but a blocked extra point, which was returned for two points by the Texans, sealed the Chargers' fate, ending Jim Harbaugh's first year on a disheartening note.

The Los Angeles Chargers are set to conclude their regular season against the Las Vegas Raiders, having already secured a playoff berth. Under the leadership of head coach Jim Harbaugh, the team has experienced a successful inaugural season. Before shifting focus to the playoffs, the Chargers have made several roster adjustments in preparation for Week 18.

Among the notable moves, safety Alohi Gilman has been activated from Reserve/Injured, while wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick and veteran safety Eddie Jackson have been elevated from the practice squad. The Chargers' safety unit has endured significant injuries throughout the season, with Elijah Molden sidelined for the remainder of the year due to a broken fibula, and Marcus Maye placed on IR following an ankle injury sustained in Week 16.

The return of Gilman and the elevation of Jackson are crucial for bolstering the team's defensive depth. In addition, linebacker Denzel Perryman has been downgraded to out for the upcoming game. As the Chargers prepare for their final regular-season match, discussions about resting starters before the playoffs have emerged.