NFC Playoff Picture Set: 49ers and Cowboys on the Outside Looking In

The NFC playoff picture is beginning to settle, with clear separation between the top contenders and those falling behind. The Eagles (7-2), Seahawks (7-2), Lions (6-3), and Buccaneers (6–3) have established themselves as the conference’s division leaders, while the Rams (7-2) look like one of the league’s most dangerous wild-card teams. Behind them, Chicago and Green Bay remain in the mix, but the margin for error is slim.

Despite their talent, the 49ers (6-4) find themselves slipping out of contention, largely due to inconsistent play and a negative point differential (-10). Their defense hasn’t matched the dominance of previous years, and costly losses have damaged their tiebreaker chances. Meanwhile, Dallas is on the outside looking in-facing stronger NFC rivals who have found more balance and momentum.

At this point, it’s difficult for other NFC teams to realistically threaten the top six. Philadelphia, Seattle, Detroit, and Los Angeles are all winning both at home and on the road, separating themselves with consistent scoring and efficient defense. Unless a major collapse or injury strikes one of these contenders, the NFC playoff field appears mostly locked.

If any team outside the current picture has a path, Green Bay has the best shot – they’re 5-3-1 with a positive net point differential (+37), and their division and conference records keep them alive. But overall, the NFC’s upper tier looks too strong. The Eagles, Seahawks, Lions, Rams, and Buccaneers have set the standard, leaving little room for late-season surprises.

Unless one of the NFC’s top teams collapses, the postseason bracket already looks nearly complete – and it doesn’t include the 49ers or Cowboys.