NFL Week 15 becomes more crucial as the playoff race tightens across the league. Injuries continue to test depth, and struggling teams now face real consequences. At this point in the season, talent alone no longer carries teams. Execution matters. These players and position groups must step up immediately.
NFL Week 15 players who need to step up as the playoff race tightens
Steelers Outside Linebackers
The Pittsburgh Steelers face a major challenge after T.J. Watt suffered a partially collapsed lung following a dry needling session at the team’s practice facility on Wednesday. The injury removed one of the most impactful defensive players in football at a critical moment. The team has not announced a firm return date, but Watt will likely miss at least two to three weeks. That timing puts pressure on Pittsburgh as it fights to stay atop the AFC North.
Alex Highsmith must take on a larger role. He remains a strong edge rusher and has recorded 6.5 sacks this season despite dealing with injuries. Nick Herbig continues to emerge as a disruptive presence. He also has 6.5 sacks while playing fewer snaps. Rookie Jack Sawyer now enters the rotation. The Steelers selected him in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He earned a reputation at Ohio State for making big plays in high-leverage moments. Pittsburgh does not need one player to replace Watt. The defense needs multiple contributors to elevate their play together.
Colts Offense with Philip Rivers
Indianapolis enters Week 15 in an unusual position after Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. The Colts surprised the league by signing Philip Rivers. Rivers has not played since January 9, 2021, which ended in a playoff loss to Buffalo. Colts backup quarterback Riley Leonard is healthy to play, and despite no decision made by the coaching staff, there is a real possibility that Rivers starts.
If Rivers does indeed start, at 44 years old, he cannot carry an offense by himself. The supporting cast must take control. Jonathan Taylor needs to establish the run game and create manageable situations. Rivers has always relied on timing and anticipation. A strong rushing attack supports that style. Rivers has also leaned heavily on tight ends throughout his career, including his years throwing to Antonio Gates. That trend will likely continue. The Colts face a difficult matchup against Seattle in Week 15. If Indianapolis wants to stay in the wild card race, the offense around Rivers must carry the workload.
Jalen Hurts and the Eagles Offense
Jalen Hurts enters Week 15 under a bit of pressure despite Philadelphia holding an 8-5 record. The Eagles have lost three straight games, and the offense has struggled to find rhythm. Hurts has thrown five interceptions over his last two games. Philadelphia has not scored more than 25 points in five consecutive contests.
The team has increased A.J. Brown’s involvement, but the offense still lacks balance. Hurts must improve his decision-making and regain command of the passing game. Eagles offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo has been receiving a lot of heat from the fans lately, but the upcoming matchups against the Raiders and Commanders provide an opportunity to correct course. The Eagles cannot afford to limp into the playoffs.
Lamar Jackson Needs to Play Better
Lamar Jackson is another quarterback in the NFL Week 15 players who need to step up. Jackson faces a defining stretch of the season. Injuries have limited him throughout the year, and his recent play reflects that wear. Jackson has thrown one passing touchdown over his last four games. He has also thrown two interceptions in his last two outings.
Baltimore has no margin for error. The Ravens close the season against Cincinnati, New England, Green Bay, and Pittsburgh. That schedule is no joke, and if Baltimore wants a shot at winning the AFC North, Jackson must return to his usual standard. The Ravens’ season now rests on how he responds.
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