Playoff Dreams Over: Which NFL Teams Are Eliminated in 2026
As the 2025 NFL regular season several teams in both the AFC and NFC would find themselves officially out of playoff contention. Based on records, performance metrics, and recent trends, here’s a breakdown of the eliminated teams and the reasons behind their struggles.
AFC Eliminated Teams
Tennessee Titans (1–8)
The Titans have been one of the weakest teams this season, with the fewest wins in the AFC and a dreadful -127 point differential. Their offense has struggled to find consistency, and the defense has been unable to contain opponents, leading to a four-game losing streak. Tennessee’s rebuild appears to be in full swing.
New York Jets (1-7)
Despite a competitive defense, the Jets’ offensive woes have defined their season. Ranked near the bottom in scoring and red-zone efficiency, they’ve failed to capitalize on key drives. Their 0-5 home record speaks to an organization still searching for direction.
Miami Dolphins (2-7)
A far cry from their explosive offense of past seasons, Miami’s inconsistencies and defensive breakdowns have cost them close games. With a -63 point differential and 1-6 conference record, they’ve fallen too far behind to recover.
Las Vegas Raiders (2-7)
The Raiders’ lack of stability on offense has hurt them badly, especially in the red zone. Their -81 point differential and 2–5 conference record make it clear they’re no longer competitive in the playoff race.
Cleveland Browns (2-6)
Cleveland’s defense has kept them competitive, but a bottom-tier offense and a 1-4 conference record have doomed their postseason hopes. Turnovers and inconsistent quarterback play have been key issues.
Cincinnati Bengals (3-6)
Injuries and poor defensive showings have derailed Cincinnati’s campaign. Their -84 point differential and 1–4 record in the last five games highlight a team that couldn’t keep pace in a tough AFC field.
Houston Texans (3-5)
Houston has shown flashes of potential with a +47 point differential, but close losses and a 1-3 road record have kept them from breaking through. They’re competitive, yet not consistent enough to earn a Wild Card spot.
Baltimore Ravens (3-5)
Despite a recent two-game win streak, the Ravens’ early-season inconsistency and -14 point differential leave them on the outside looking in. They’ll need a major second-half surge to rejoin the playoff mix.
NFC Eliminated Teams
New Orleans Saints (1-8)
With a –105 point differential and the worst record in the NFC, the Saints’ offense has been nearly non-existent, and their defense hasn’t been able to carry the load. A clear rebuild year in New Orleans.
New York Giants (2-7)
The Giants’ inability to protect the quarterback and a -52 point differential have sunk them early. Their 0–5 road record sums up a season defined by frustration and underachievement.
Washington Commanders (3-6)
Washington’s defense has given up 236 points, and their four-game losing streak all but seals their fate. They’ve struggled to finish games, with too many blown leads and missed opportunities.
Atlanta Falcons (3-5)
The Falcons’ offense has underperformed, ranking near the bottom in points scored (143). Despite moments of promise, a –35 point differential and poor divisional play (0-2) have cost them dearly.
Arizona Cardinals (3-5)
Arizona’s effort is commendable, but their lack of depth on both sides of the ball limits them against stronger teams. They remain competitive but not playoff-caliber.
Dallas Cowboys (3-5-1)
Dallas boasts one of the highest-scoring offenses in the NFC (263 points), but defensive lapses and inconsistency on the road (1-4) have been costly. Their tie slightly helps, but not enough to overcome their current standing.
Minnesota Vikings (4-4)
Minnesota is hovering at .500, but a -4 point differential and middle-of-the-pack stats suggest mediocrity. They’ve been unable to sustain momentum or win key divisional games.
Carolina Panthers (5-4)
Though technically still in the mix, Carolina’s -35 point differential and poor defensive metrics make them a long shot. They’ve struggled to beat top-tier NFC teams and have limited offensive firepower.
Summary
If the playoffs began today, teams like Denver, Philadelphia, Seattle, and Green Bay would headline the postseason – while franchises such as Tennessee, New Orleans, and the New York Giants would be officially eliminated.
Most eliminated teams share similar issues: unstable quarterback play, weak defensive efficiency, and poor divisional performances. For them, the focus shifts to draft positioning and player development for the 2026 season.