Building on initial coverage of the 2025 NFL Christmas Day tripleheader, this update highlights fresh stats, momentum shifts, and injury impacts for the Cowboys-Commanders, Lions-Vikings, and Broncos-Chiefs matchups as kickoff nears. Playoff hopefuls Detroit and Denver carry high stakes amid widespread QB and key player absences.
As the NFL's Week 17 Christmas games approach, new developments sharpen focus on the tripleheader's narratives.
Dallas Cowboys (6-8-1) at Washington Commanders (4-11): Both build for 2026, with Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer stressing culture. Dak Prescott ranks second in passing yards (4,175) and third in TDs (28). Washington relies on Josh Johnson (5-of-9, 43 yards, INT last week) after Marcus Mariota's injuries. Key absences: RB Javonte Williams (shoulder), TE Jake Ferguson (calf).
Detroit Lions (8-7) at Minnesota Vikings (7-8): Lions (9-1 ATS last 10 vs. Vikings) need a win and Packers losses for playoffs; Jared Goff leads NFL with fewest giveaways (8). Vikings, on three-game win streak (latest: 16-13 over Giants), start rookie Max Brosmer (J.J. McCarthy out, hand); defense has zero passing TDs allowed in six games. Questionable: WR Amon-Ra St. Brown (knee). Snoop Dogg headlines halftime with Lainey Wilson and Andrea Bocelli.
Denver Broncos (12-3) at Kansas City Chiefs (6-9): Broncos can clinch AFC's top seed, ranking fifth in scoring defense (19.7 ppg) and first in sacks (63). Chiefs turn to third-stringer Chris Oladokun post-Mahomes ACL and Minshew knee injuries; Travis Kelce and Xavier Worthy provide spark, but this may be Kelce's last home game. Out: C Luke Wattenberg (shoulder, IR); questionable: LB Nick Bolton (illness).
Netflix airs the first two exclusively; Prime Video has the nightcap.
