NFL Playoff Picture Shaken as Star Quarterbacks Face Elimination

The NFL’s postseason landscape has been radically altered. Several of the league’s biggest stars will watch from home. Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Dak Prescott are already out.

Lamar Jackson and the Ravens are on the brink. The Lions’ hopes are also fading fast. This creates one of the most unexpected playoff races in recent memory.

Chiefs and Bengals Dynasties Stumble Unexpectedly

Patrick Mahomes will miss the playoffs for the first time. His Kansas City Chiefs were eliminated in Week 15. Mahomes suffered a severe knee injury in that loss.

He has already undergone surgery. His future return is set for 2026. The Chiefs’ run of AFC dominance appears over, at least for now.

Joe Burrow and the Bengals are also finished. Cincinnati missed the playoffs for a third straight year. Burrow played only six games due to a turf toe injury.

His recent comments about his future raised eyebrows. According to Reuters, Burrow gave a cryptic answer about playing elsewhere. The Bengals’ core faces serious questions this offseason.

Ravens and Lions Fight to Stay Alive

Baltimore’s chances are now perilously slim. Lamar Jackson injured his back in a critical Week 16 loss. His status for their must-win game is uncertain.

NFL.com’s playoff predictor gives them just an 11% chance. A loss or a Steelers win this weekend ends their season. Jackson’s injury-plagued year may conclude without a postseason trip.

The Detroit Lions are in nearly as much trouble. Their loss dropped them to 8-7. Their playoff odds fell to just 8% after being a top seed last year.

The Dallas Cowboys’ elimination was also confirmed. This extends their Super Bowl drought to three decades. Owner Jerry Jones admitted the team “underachieved.”

This unprecedented NFL playoff shakeup opens the door for surprise contenders. The absence of perennial powers creates a wide-open path to the Super Bowl.

Thought you’d like to know

Which teams benefit most from this playoff shakeup?

The Buffalo Bills have their clearest path in years. The New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Jacksonville Jaguars are also in strong position. These teams are competing for top seeds after poor 2025 seasons.

Is Lamar Jackson playing this weekend?

His status is uncertain due to a back injury. Jackson left last week’s game and did not return. The Ravens likely need him to play to keep their slim hopes alive.

What happened to Patrick Mahomes?

He tore multiple ligaments in his left knee. The injury occurred during a Week 15 loss. Mahomes has undergone surgery and aims to return for the 2026 season opener.

Are the Tampa Bay Buccaneers making the playoffs?

Their chances are still above 50%. They trail the Carolina Panthers in the NFC South. A Week 18 matchup between the two could decide the division winner.

Why did the Cowboys miss the playoffs?

Despite offensive talent, their defense struggled consistently. The team failed in close games. Jerry Jones cited underachievement across the roster.

Who is the AFC North leader now?

The Pittsburgh Steelers lead the division at 9-6. They are led by 42-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers. A win this Sunday would clinch the division for them.

Trusted Sources: Information was gathered from official NFL game statistics, reports from NFL.com, and news coverage from Reuters and Associated Press.