NFL Announce NFC Players of the Week for Week 16

The NFL revealed its NFC Players of the Week for Week 16, and they include a Defensive Player of the Year candidate on a conference contender and a running back on a team making a surprising push for a division crown.

NFC Players of the Week! (Week 16)@D33_foreman | @nbsmallerbear pic.twitter.com/aypdHhJkq5
— NFL (@NFL) December 28, 2022

On offense, Carolina Panthers running back D'Onta Foreman earns his flowers for his efforts in his team's 37-23 win over the Detroit Lions. Foreman ran for an incredible 165 yards on only 21 carries, helping the Panthers relentlessly gash the Lions for an astonishing 320 total rushing yards. Saturday's win gives the Panthers a chance to steal the NFC South if they can snag victories over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints in the next two weeks.

On defense, San Francisco 49ers edge rusher Nick Bosa wins (again) for his dominant effort in his team's 37-20 win over the Washington Commanders. Bosa logged two sacks, one forced fumble, and seven total tackles. Bosa's 17.5 sacks lead the league this year, and the 49ers rank first in the league in points allowed and yards allowed. He's a strong contender to eventually walk away with Defensive Player of the Year honors.

As for special teams, Minnesota Vikings kicker Greg Joseph gets the nod for his nine points on five kicks in his team's 27-24 win over the New York Giants. Joseph nailed three point after attempts and two field goal attempts, including a thrilling 61-yard game-winner as time expired.