Rodgers Reflects on Emotional Playoffs Return in Top Week 18 Quotes

The NFL’s Week 18 set the stage for a dramatic conclusion to the regular season, with significant implications for the playoffs. Rivalries were fierce, especially in the final game where the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Baltimore Ravens for the AFC North championship and a spot in the postseason.

Playoff Picture Solidified

The high stakes of the matchup led to intense trash talk and memorable sound bytes from players and coaches alike. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers expressed his feelings about returning to the playoffs. “It’s pretty emotional, honestly. It’s been a great year. So I’m thankful for these guys and excited to be going to the playoffs for the first time in a long while,” he stated.

The Steelers triumphed over the Ravens after a missed 44-yard field goal from Tyler Loop. Rodgers contributed significantly, completing a crucial 26-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III.

Notable Player Highlights

• Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns DE: After entering Week 16 with 21.5 sacks, Garrett aimed to break the NFL’s single-season sack record. He managed to secure a sack against the Cincinnati Bengals, setting a new goal of 25 sacks.
• Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals WR: After his team was eliminated from playoff contention on December 14, Chase revealed his vacation plans following a difficult season.
• Tony Jefferson, Los Angeles Chargers S: Jefferson expressed his lack of respect for the Denver Broncos after they clinched the AFC’s top playoff seed with a victory over the Chargers, who fielded a largely backup team.

Other Key Matchups and Outcomes

The Carolina Panthers clinched the NFC South for the first time since 2015, aided by the Atlanta Falcons’ narrow 19-17 victory against the New Orleans Saints. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders concluded their season with a dramatic 14-12 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Kicker Daniel Carlson kicked a career-long 60-yard field goal to secure the win, breaking a 10-game losing streak.

Finally, as the Dallas Cowboys’ season ended with a 34-17 defeat to the New York Giants, owner Jerry Jones quickly turned his attention to the upcoming season. “The 2026 season begins Monday,” he remarked, emphasizing his determination to regroup.

The emotions and intensity of the playoffs are now on the horizon, as teams prepare for their next steps in this critical postseason.