Giants and Raiders sabotage their future with Week 17 wins

In the United States, the NFL is approaching its playoff season, with only one week remaining in the regular season. The New York Giants made a significant decision by winning against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 17, resulting in a final record of 3-14. This victory was crucial not only for the team's morale but also impacted their chances in the upcoming NFL Draft. The Giants had aimed to secure the top overall pick, which would have allowed them to select the best available player or trade the pick for additional future assets. However, this victory put them at risk of missing out on that opportunity. Simultaneously, the Las Vegas Raiders won their game against the New Orleans Saints, which put them into a similar predicament regarding the 2025 NFL Draft. Previously, the Raiders were struggling with only three wins, placing them at a favorable position for a top draft pick. Their victory against the Saints not only raised their total wins to four but also complicated their chances of securing a high selection in the draft. Both teams are now watching the outcomes of the remaining Week 18 games to determine just how much their draft positions change due to their recent performances. The winners of these games showed incredible effort, yet their victories may prove counterproductive in the long run given their team standings and future strategies. While such wins can be seen as a positive morale boost for players and fans alike, they often come at the cost of better draft positions, especially for franchises that need rebuilding. As the regular season concludes, the focus for many teams, including the Giants and Raiders, shifts once more towards making substantial improvements ahead of the next season, with the draft being a pivotal moment for these changes. The dynamic of winning late in a disappointing season often sparks debate among fans and management alike, particularly if the wins affect the team’s future in the draft. For both the Giants and Raiders, this affects their strategy moving onward, and they must weigh the value of pride against the need for a robust rebuilding effort in the face of competition in a rapidly evolving league.