AFC Playoff Bracket 2026: Who do the Texans and Chargers Play Next?

The Texans are IN, and the Chargers are reeling. Following Houston’s 17-10 victory at SoFi Stadium, the AFC playoff picture has been turned upside down. We break down the latest seeding updates, why the Denver Broncos just won the AFC West without playing, and the most likely Wild Card opponents for Stroud and Herbert.

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12/28/20252 min read

The Saturday Night showdown between the Houston Texans and the Los Angeles Chargers lived up to the hype, but it ended in heartbreak for the Bolt Fam. With a final score of 17-10, the Texans didn't just win a game—they reshaped the entire AFC landscape.

If you are checking the standings this morning, here is exactly where things stand and what it means for your team's path to Super Bowl LX.

1. The Texans: Clinched and Dangerous

With this win, the Houston Texans (11-5) have officially punched their ticket to the postseason.

  • The Week 18 Goal: Houston is still chasing the Jacksonville Jaguars for the AFC South crown.

  • Current Projection: If the season ended today, the Texans would likely travel to New England to face the Patriots in the Wild Card round—a rematch of a classic early-season battle.

2. The Chargers: Losing the West

The biggest fallout of Saturday’s loss isn't just the score—it’s the standings. By falling to 11-5, the Chargers have officially been eliminated from winning the AFC West.

  • The Broncos Benefit: The Denver Broncos are now the AFC West Champions.

  • Seeding Scramble: The Chargers are now locked into a Wild Card battle with the Buffalo Bills. Currently, the Chargers hold the #6 seed. This means, as of right now, Justin Herbert is projected to head to Jacksonville for a high-stakes Wild Card game against the Jaguars.

3. The C.J. Stroud Stat That Matters

While the Chargers' defense kept them in the game, they couldn't stop Stroud’s explosive start. Stroud became one of the few QBs in NFL history to throw two 40+ yard touchdowns in the first quarter of a game this late in the season (75 yards to Jayden Higgins and 43 yards to Jaylin Noel). This "big play" capability makes Houston a team no one wants to see in January.

4. Week 18 "Rooting Guide" for Fans

  • Chargers fans: You want to beat the Broncos next week to secure the #5 seed and potentially avoid a trip to a division winner like the Jaguars or Steelers.

  • Texans fans: You need to beat the Colts next week and hope the Jaguars stumble against the Titans to steal the division and a home playoff game.

AFC Playoff Seeding (Current Projection)

  • #1 Seed: Denver Broncos (First Round Bye)

  • #2 Seed: New England Patriots vs. #7 Seed: Houston Texans

  • #3 Seed: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. #6 Seed: L.A. Chargers

  • #4 Seed: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. #5 Seed: Buffalo Bills

Final Thought: Saturday proved that the Texans’ defense is a championship-caliber unit. For the Chargers, the focus shifts to health—getting Justin Herbert’s protection right before the win-or-go-home games begin in two weeks.