The Cincinnati Bengals have a small, outside chance of making the NFL playoffs this year. Granted, the chance in Week 18 when they take on the Pittsburgh Steelers is much, much better than it was the week prior.

In a funny twist, the Chiefs can knock the Bengals out of the postseason before the bracket is even set. All they have to do is lose the regular-season finale in Denver to ensure the Broncos reach the postseason and the Bengals stay out of it — a task made easier with Mahomes and a host of top-flight starters expected to sit out the game.

The first day of the 2025 League Year will end at 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 12. Clubs will receive a personnel notice that will include all transactions submitted to the league office during the period between 4:00 p.m., New York time, and 11:59:59 p.m., New York time, on March 12. Annual League Meeting, Palm Beach, Florida.

The Bengals need a win to stay alive in the AFC playoff picture, and Mike Florio and Chris Simms are taking Cincinnati in a close game with the Steelers looking more like a "one and done" team of late.

The Bengals (8-8) need a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers Saturday and help in two other games Sunday to reach the NFL playoffs.